India to use AI for smarter, secure power grid
Union Minister Shripad Naik announces plans to integrate AI into India's power sector to enhance grid reliability and manage renewable energy.
The Indian government is preparing to revolutionize its energy infrastructure by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to create a more resilient and intelligent power network. Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, revealed that AI will be a cornerstone in managing the nation's massive transmission network and ensuring electricity services remain stable and secure.
Speaking at the Central Electricity Authority's (CEA) 53rd Foundation Day event in New Delhi, Naik emphasized that the complexity of modern energy demands requires advanced technological intervention. He noted that to make the vast electricity grid reliable, safe, and smart, the adoption of artificial intelligence is no longer optional but essential.
Managing the Renewable Energy Surge
As India aggressively expands its electricity generation capacity, particularly through green energy, the grid faces new challenges. The integration of intermittent sources like solar and wind energy requires sophisticated demand forecasting and real-time management—tasks where AI excels.
The government is currently investigating various applications for AI across the entire electricity spectrum, from generation to distribution, to strengthen operational efficiency. "Today is the age of artificial intelligence. AI is affecting every aspect of our lives. Therefore, we want to ensure that AI is properly used in our power sector so that we can provide better services to people," Naik stated.
Surpassing Renewable Energy Targets
The push for AI-driven management comes at a time when India's energy profile is shifting rapidly. Highlighting significant milestones in the sector, the Minister shared impressive statistics regarding the country's power capacity:
- Total Installed Capacity: The nation has reached a total of 558 gigawatts (GW).
- Non-Fossil Fuel Milestone: Non-fossil fuel sources now account for 308 GW, representing approximately 55 per cent of the total capacity.
- Target Achievement: India had originally aimed to reach 50 per cent installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, but has successfully hit this mark five years ahead of schedule.
With the energy mix evolving, the government is prioritizing the supporting infrastructure needed to sustain this growth through 2030.
Smart Meters and Transmission Expansion
To complement the move toward an AI-enabled grid, India has already made significant strides in digitalizing its distribution network. Approximately 7.75 crore smart meters have been installed nationwide. These devices allow utility companies to gain deep insights into consumer patterns, helping them balance electricity generation with real-time demand more effectively.
Furthermore, the physical backbone of the country's energy supply has seen massive growth, with the transmission network expanding to roughly five lakh circuit kilometres. The ongoing two-day conference hosted by the CEA aims to deliberate on how these expanding networks can be made more efficient and secure through the strategic deployment of AI technology.