THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BERHAMPUR,
MARCH 26, 2026
With summer approaching and electricity
demand expected to rise significantly, TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited
(TPSODL) has intensified its preparedness to ensure reliable and uninterrupted
power supply across its service areas. The company anticipates peak demand to
reach around 855 MW and has rolled out a comprehensive set of measures covering
advanced technology deployment, network strengthening, and enhanced customer
service to efficiently meet the seasonal surge.
At the core of TPSODL’s strategy is a
robust, round-the-clock monitoring framework. The company operates a
Centralized Power System Control Centre (PSCC) in Berhampur, supported by
decentralised Area Power System Control Centres (APSCCs) in Jeypore, Rayagada
and Phulbani. These facilities are equipped with advanced SCADA systems that
enable engineers to monitor the power distribution network in real time,
including 33 kV feeders, Primary Substations (PSS) and 11 kV feeders.
The system continuously captures
critical operational data such as feeder-wise interruptions, enabling teams to
promptly identify faults and accelerate restoration. To further enhance
reliability, TPSODL has established a backup control centre at the TPCODL Technology
Centre in Bhubaneswar, ensuring automatic failover and zero downtime during
contingencies.
As electricity consumption rises
during summer, continuous monitoring becomes vital. TPSODL has introduced
dedicated dashboards at control centres to track feeder loading in real time,
enabling PSCC engineers to take proactive decisions and prevent overloading,
thereby maintaining stable power supply.
In the event of disruptions,
particularly when an 11 kV feeder trips, restoration work begins immediately.
Leveraging SCADA technology, control centre teams can remotely initiate trial
charging while adhering to strict safety protocols, significantly reducing
outage duration and improving service reliability.
On the infrastructure front, TPSODL
has undertaken significant upgrades to strengthen the network. The company has
added 145.5 MVA capacity to its sub-transmission system through transformer and
substation enhancements. Additionally, 96 MVA capacity has been added to the
distribution network through the installation of new distribution transformers
and upgradation of existing units.
Network expansion has also remained a
key focus area. TPSODL has extended its network by 52.31 circuit kilometres
(CKM) of sub-transmission lines, 145 CKM of 11 kV lines and 1,552 CKM of
low-tension (LT) lines. Feeder augmentation and installation of On-Load Tap
Changers (OLTCs) have been carried out to maintain voltage stability even
during peak load conditions.
To effectively manage high demand,
TPSODL has institutionalised centralised control of 33 kV operations across
substations. This is supported by contingency planning and dynamic load
management systems, enabling the network to handle peak demand without the need
for load curtailment.
Adopting modern maintenance practices,
TPSODL has introduced drone-based surveys for its 33 kV network.
High-resolution imagery captured by drones helps detect minor defects and
potential overheating points that may not be visible during manual inspections,
thereby reducing the risk of unexpected outages.
In another significant step, TPSODL
has overhauled 40 high-capacity power transformers and installed 152 new Vacuum
Circuit Breakers (VCBs). These upgrades are designed to minimise the risk of
equipment failure caused by extreme summer heat and ensure consistent power
supply during high-demand periods.
On the consumer service front, TPSODL
has strengthened its communication and grievance redressal systems. Consumers
will receive outage updates in multiple languages through social media
platforms. Call centre operations have also been upgraded with SMS alerts and
call-back options to efficiently manage higher volumes of consumer queries and
complaints.
To ensure swift restoration of supply,
the company has deployed more than 5,925 personnel across its operational
areas. Preventive maintenance of primary feeders and refurbishment of
distribution substations have also been undertaken to minimise the likelihood
of faults during the summer season.
Speaking about the preparations, TPSODL CEO Amit Kumar Garg said, “Ensuring reliable and quality power supply during the summer months is our top priority. With strengthened infrastructure, advanced monitoring systems, and a highly responsive workforce, TPSODL is fully prepared to meet the rising demand while enhancing service reliability and safety for our consumers.”
With these comprehensive measures in place, TPSODL aims to ensure uninterrupted, safe and efficient electricity supply for consumers across Southern Odisha throughout the summer months.
