THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
APRIL 16, 2026
TP
Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) has successfully met a peak power
demand of 2000 MW across its distribution areas — Bhubaneswar, Cuttack,
Paradeep, and Dhenkanal — on April 13, marking the highest demand recorded so
far this season amid intensifying heatwave conditions in Odisha.
The
achievement comes as the India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow
warning for heatwave conditions, coupled with the possibility of thunderstorms
across parts of the state. The rising temperatures have significantly driven up
electricity consumption, particularly for cooling needs.
In
anticipation of the seasonal surge, TPCODL has substantially strengthened its
power distribution network by adding 334 MVA of capacity, enhancing real-time
grid monitoring, and deploying over 9,000 field personnel to ensure
uninterrupted power supply during peak demand.
The
utility has leveraged advanced technologies such as Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for real-time monitoring of feeders,
substations, and load flows. These enable swift fault detection, remote
operations, and dynamic load management, thereby improving network resilience
and operational efficiency.
To
further bolster reliability, TPCODL has undertaken extensive preventive and
predictive maintenance measures, including tree trimming, thermal scanning of
transformers, feeder pillars, and underground cable networks. These proactive
steps help identify potential vulnerabilities and minimise supply disruptions.
Advanced
distribution automation technologies — such as SCADA-operated Ring Main Units
(RMUs), auto-reclosers, Fault Passage Indicators (FPIs), and Feeder Remote
Terminal Units (FRTUs) — have also been deployed to enhance system visibility,
enable automated fault detection, and significantly reduce restoration time.
The
Power Distribution Technology Centre (PDTC) in Bhubaneswar is monitoring
network performance and load patterns round-the-clock through integrated
digital platforms and communication redundancy systems, ensuring uninterrupted
operations even during contingencies. Hot standby arrangements at key urban
substations further strengthen rapid response capabilities.
Alongside
heatwave preparedness, TPCODL has aligned its operations to tackle seasonal
disruptions such as Kalbaisakhi storms. Manpower, machinery, and materials have
been strategically positioned under its Business Continuity and Disaster
Management Plan. The company is fully geared to handle peak loads of up to
2,690 MW during the season.
Customer
service has also been reinforced with 24x7 call centre operations, digital
command centres, and multiple communication channels, including SMS alerts,
missed call services, and mobile applications, ensuring swift grievance
redressal and real-time outage updates.
TPCODL
has witnessed a steady rise in power demand, with peak load increasing from
1,686 MW in FY22 to an estimated 2,700 MW by FY27 — reflecting a 60 per cent
growth over five years.
Commenting on the development, TPCODL CEO Arvind Singh said, “We remain committed to delivering reliable power supply as temperatures rise. Our teams are fully mobilised, and with advanced technologies and real-time monitoring, we are well-prepared to ensure uninterrupted power availability and maintain network reliability during peak demand periods.”
With strengthened infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive preparedness measures, TPCODL is well-positioned to meet rising power demand and ensure reliable electricity supply throughout the ongoing summer and beyond.
