New Delhi, Dec 7: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play a key role in building smarter, consumer-centric and self-optimizing power distribution networks, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal said at the National Conference on AI/ML in the Power Sector held at Bharat Mandapam on Saturday.
He said technologies such as smart meter analytics, digital twins, predictive maintenance, theft detection tools, appliance-level insights, and automated outage predictions can significantly improve both efficiency and the consumer experience.
The Minister also called for increased consumer engagement to counter misinformation and promote widespread adoption of new technologies.
He commended the participation of states, industry, innovators and academia and appreciated the solutions showcased by DISCOMs, AMISPs, technology solution providers and home automation companies.
The conference received 195 innovation submissions, of which 51 were shortlisted.
The award-winning companies include TNPDCL and MP East (DISCOM), Tata Power and Apraava (AMISP), Pravah and Flock Energy (solution providers) and Tata Power (home automation).
Their presentations highlighted data-driven tools for revenue protection, loss reduction, behavioral demand response, and real-time grid intelligence.
The Minister also launched STELLAR, a tool developed by the Central Electricity Authority to assist DISCOMs in long-term load optimization planning.
India Smart Grid Forum has released a handbook on AI, ML, AR/VR and Robotics featuring 174 use cases for power utilities.
