PUDUCHERRY: A smart grid with load reduction - instead of load shedding - is a better way to manage power shortage and minimise loss of energy. This was mooted at a workshop on developing model interstate sustainable regions for Puducherry-Villupuram-Auroville and Cuddalore on Friday, in the backdrop of Puducherry embarking on the country’s first smart grid pilot project. With funding assistance from ADEME and endorsement from the Puducherry government, INTACH Puducherry and PondyCAN have embarked on this initiative to help realise the full potential of the region, said Ashok Panda of INTACH.Back-up inverters used during power cuts are adding to the power problem, explained Toine van Megan, co-founder of Auroville Consulting. The energy efficiency of inverters is only 55 to 60 per cent and 40 to 45 per cent of the energy is lost due to charging and discharging. Smart grids with load reduction instead of load shedding will reduce the inefficiency of back-up inverters and stand-by generators.The smart grid could have two lines, one being essentials and the other for non-essentials. During load reduction, non-essential heavy duty connections to ACs and washing machines would go off while the bulb, fan, TV and other low-end appliances would remain.A grid connected to rooftop solar panels with feed in tariffs needs to be explored as part of renewable energy supply options, said Megen. Also, rural feeders should not be treated as second class, if the objective of Providing Urban-amenities in Rural Areas (PURA) is to be realised. Supply should be a 24x7, three-phase connection, without tripping in case of power shortage, or providing two-phase or low-voltage.Another suggestion was that free power to agriculturists should be withdrawn as farmers are not motivated to use power judiciously. Instead they should switch over to drip irrigation from flow irrigation and install efficient pumps.
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