Power Ministry embraces AI to curb non-technical losses

In its submissions to the Standing committee on Communications and Information Technology, the Power Ministry stated that AI applications are increasingly being used for grid management, accurate energy demand forecasting, and seamless integration of renewable energy into the power system.

It added that AI has the potential to address key sectoral challenges such as reducing energy waste, lowering operational costs, and accelerating the adoption of clean and renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to both national and global sustainability goals.

Highlighting ongoing developments, the ministry said National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has deployed an AI/ML-based forecasting system for solar power generation. The system uses advanced algorithms along with real-time weather data from IoT-based monitoring stations, satellite inputs, and historical irradiance patterns to generate accurate day-ahead and intra-day forecasts. This has replaced earlier manual and third-party forecasting methods, which were more prone to errors.

The automated system has helped improve scheduling accuracy, reduce deviation charges under the Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM), and enhance renewable energy integration and grid compliance. Similarly, the Grid Controller of India Limited is working towards upgrading its forecasting capabilities by developing an AI/ML-based short-term demand forecasting model. The proposed system aims to integrate weather conditions, historical demand data, and factors such as holidays and weekends, with a target Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 3–5% for day-ahead forecasts.

On concerns related to cybersecurity, the ministry said that the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) was in the process of finalising the Cyber Security in Power Sector Regulations. These regulations are intended to ensure that the control and operation of power system components, including solar inverters, as well as the exchange of real-time data, remain within national boundaries.

The ministry further stated that safeguards are being strengthened through mandatory security clearances for IT equipment and services used in the power sector. Such equipment will be required to pass through the Trusted Telecom Portal operated by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) before procurement, with effect from 1 January 2026.

The proposed regulatory framework and cybersecurity measures are aimed at strengthening the resilience of India’s power infrastructure while ensuring safe integration of advanced digital technologies such as AI into the energy ecosystem.