Tangedco proposal to improve city’s power distribution infra

The ring main unit is a sealed and insulated compact switchgear unit used for electric power distribution. “The insulation may be air, oil, or gas, and the switch used to isolate the transformer may be fusible or circuit breaker. The ring main unit is a safe, easy to install and maintenance-free switchgear which improves the reliability of utilities and uptime of the network, besides reducing operational costs,” a senior Tangedco official said.

Tangedco proposes to convert the existing distribution transformers structures to RMUs in the suburban parts of the city to ensure safety and to prevent electrical accidents. “A detailed project report approval has been obtained for the replacement of 13,810 transformer structures at a total cost of Rs 1,819 crore. The funding for this project is by the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC). The tender for replacing 5,692 transformer structures has been opened and is under scrutiny. This project will also be completed in 2020-21,” the official said.

Besides, Tangedco has also proposed to replace the pillar box with high rupturing capacity (HRC) fuse MS six-way pillar box in Chennai region in a phased manner to minimise power interruption during natural calamities. An official said that the detailed project report has been approved for the replacement of 33,225 exiting pillar boxes at an estimated amount of Rs 389 crore funded by REC.