CHENNAI: In a significant technological milestone, CSIR Chennai has successfully developed its first fully indigenous Emergency Power Restoration System (EPRS) for quick retrieval of power transmission. The system, designed, tested, and patented in India, marks a major step towards self-reliance in power infrastructure and disaster management.
This is the first time such a specialised system has been fully developed by CSIR–Structural Engineering Research Centre to quickly restore electricity during natural disasters or emergencies when high voltage transmission towers collapse or sustain severe damage due to floods, cyclones, landslides, earthquakes, or other extreme weather events.
It is to be noted that India, so far, has largely depended on imported systems from countries such as the United States and Canada for emergency power restoration.
Speaking to DT Next, CSIR–Chennai Director Anandavalli said the successful development of the system has positioned India as the third country in the world, after the US and Canada, to possess this advanced technology.
She pointed out that the transfer of this indigenous technology to three Indian companies marks a significant breakthrough, as earlier only two global firms from the USA and Canada could manufacture and deploy such systems.
This indigenous system has been developed with lighter weight, cost-effectiveness, and is suited to Indian geographical and climatic conditions to match international standards. The system will be especially advantageous in hilly, high-altitude regions and remote terrains where transporting heavy equipment and rebuilding high-voltage towers can be extremely challenging.
The system is capable of temporarily carrying electrical loads ranging from 30 kW to 800 kW, in replacement of the conventional permanent high-voltage transmission towers that carry a similar capacity.
While repairing or rebuilding a damaged transmission tower usually takes two to three months, this temporary system can restore the power supply within just three days. This rapid capability is crucial for maintaining essential services such as hospitals, water supply, communication networks, and industrial operations during emergencies.
Earlier, importing similar systems cost power utilities nearly Rs 45 crore per installation, in addition to logistical hurdles, customs clearance delays, and dependence on foreign suppliers, rendering restoration works complicated during a critical situation.
A key innovation in this system is the two-pin "Gimbal Point" joint, which allows temporary towers to be safely fixed to the temporary foundations even on terrain. This unique component has already been patented in India and significantly enhances the system's stability and adaptability.
These innovations have garnered global attention with international enquiries and export orders.
Notably, the system developed by CSIR was tested at the Power Tower Testing and Research Station located at Tirusulam near the city.
The successful trials at this facility have proved the system's reliability and readiness for deployment, a testament to India's growing capabilities in power engineering and disaster management infrastructure.