Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 06 September 2024
The United States Agency for International Development’s South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (USAID-SAREP) successfully completed a two-day capacity-building workshop on Smart Meter and Smart Grid technologies. Held from August 30 to 31, 2024, the workshop was attended by 45 engineers from the local Department of Power, including Junior Engineers, Assistant Engineers, and Executive Engineers.
The workshop was designed to enhance the participants’ understanding and capacity in the energy sector, with a particular focus on the integration and implementation of Smart Grid technologies. Attendees were provided with a comprehensive overview of the critical role that Smart Meters and Smart Grids play in modernizing energy distribution systems and networks.
The event was inaugurated by the Director (Power), who emphasised the importance of Smart Grid technology in achieving energy security. The Director also praised USAID’s ongoing efforts in supporting energy sector reforms and fostering innovation. He highlighted that the installation of Smart Meters offers numerous advantages, including the elimination of manual monthly meter readings, real-time monitoring of electrical systems, and encouraging more efficient use of power resources by consumers.
Throughout the workshop, participants delved into various aspects of Smart Metering systems, including enhanced network monitoring, load management, outage restoration, asset management, and customer engagement. By leveraging the capabilities of Smart Meters, utilities can significantly improve operational efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. The workshop featured practical case studies and interactive sessions, providing attendees with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with Smart Grid implementation.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Superintending Engineer (Technical), who expressed gratitude to USAID-SAREP for organizing the event and acknowledged the valuable contributions of all participants. He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with USAID to advance the deployment of Smart Grid technologies in the region. He also noted that Smart Meters play a pivotal role in the Smart Grid by providing accurate, real-time data on energy consumption, a crucial component of ongoing modernization efforts. The Superintending Engineer reiterated that USAID remains dedicated to supporting the energy sector’s transition towards a more sustainable and resilient future through initiatives like this workshop.