Tata Power-DDL Gains International Recognition with International Smart Grids Action Network (ISGAN) Award of Excellence 2024 for Grid Resilience Flexibility
New Delhi : Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL), a leading power utility supplying electricity to a populace of 7 million in North Delhi, has gained international recognition by winning the acclaimed ‘International Smart Grids Action Network (ISGAN) Award of Excellence 2024’ for its project ‘Enhancing Grid Resilience through End-User Behavioural Demand Response.’ The award ceremony was held on October 2, 2024 in Foz Du Iguaçu, Brazil, where Tata Power-DDL’s project received an ‘Honorable Mention’ for its outstanding approach to flexible grid resilience among an exceptional group of nominees.
The awardees were selected by a highly distinguished international jury in collaboration with the Global Smart Energy Federation (GSEF). This ceremony was held as part of the 1-3 October program of the Fifteenth Clean Energy Ministerial Meeting (CEM15/MI-9), a global forum to share best practices and promote policies and programs that support the ongoing transition to a global clean energy economy.
The ISGAN Award of Excellence recognizes excellence in smart grid projects around the world and seeks to leverage leadership and innovation in smart grids to accelerate global exchange of best practices and promote replication or adaptation of proven concepts in other markets, countries and regions.
Tata Power-DDL is known for its robust and innovative energy solutions. The discom prioritizes grid stability and efficiency, setting an industry benchmark for reliable power distribution and improved grid stability.
Commenting on the win, Mr. Gajanan S. Kale, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited said, “We’re honored to have received this recognition. With objective of promoting groundbreaking advancements in smart grid technologies, this international recognition reflects Tata Power-DDL’s leadership in grid quality and resilience in energy’s evolving scenario tilting towards renewable sources. This timely award will motivate us to keep striving for excellence & innovation in the area of smart grids.”
The award is a testament that Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL) has pioneered a remarkable initiative through its Behavioral Demand Response (BDR) program, positioning itself at the forefront of grid resilience in India. Designed to address rising electricity demands during peak hours, the BDR program empowers both residential and commercial customers to manage their power usage more effectively, thus alleviating pressure on the grid, reducing environmental impact, and promoting energy sustainability.
BDR was launched as a pilot project in FY22, Tata Power-DDL’s BDR program set out with an ambitious objective: to engage customers in proactive energy management, especially during peak demand periods. This initiative enabled consumers to reduce their power usage at key times, enhancing the reliability of the energy distribution system and reducing the need for expensive power purchases.
Initially enrolling 2,000 participants, the pilot achieved notable success, resulting in a 7.69 MW demand reduction. Based on these early accomplishments, Tata Power-DDL expanded its reach, enrolling over 100,000 customers by FY25. As participation grew, so did the impact: the cumulative load reduction reached an impressive 1,052 MW over four years, effectively lightening the grid load during critical times. This effort also contributed to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1,662 tons—an equivalent to preserving 63,120 trees.
Tata Power-DDL’s BDR program demonstrates a strategic blend of innovative technology and community engagement. By leveraging smart metering infrastructure, real-time data, and customer-focused campaigns, Tata Power-DDL has achieved substantial energy savings and created a framework for others to follow. Customers who were previously interested in supporting climate initiatives but lacked practical avenues now have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
As the BDR program continues to evolve, Tata Power-DDL remains committed to pioneering new ways to empower consumers and reduce environmental impact. The success of this program signals a promising future where utility companies and customers work together towards a sustainable, resilient energy landscape.