New-age tech can help optimise India’s energy consumption trends

India’s power sector is one of the most diversified in the world and is witnessing growth like never before. However, the sector is challenged by meter tampering, power theft and inefficient use of electricity. “India needs a smarter mechanism in place by adopting new-age technology that can efficiently utilise the pattern of energy consumption among households and make it cost-effective for them,” Marisa Uchin, vice-president, Global Regulatory Affairs, Oracle Utilities, Oracle, tells Sudhir Chowdhary in a recent interview. Excerpts:

How do you see the Indian power sector’s challenges and the growing needs?
India has emerged as the world’s third-largest electricity producer and as of late last year, the country has a total installed power generating capacity of 3,46,048 MW. Being the largest importer of energy and efficient utility of per unit of energy, switching to renewable is the key. In addition to making power accessible, it also needs to be affordable for consumers. India’s energy sector is challenged by pilferage owing to tampering with meters and distribution lines. Power theft and inefficient use of electricity are other concerns where losses are over 20%. India needs a smarter mechanism that can efficiently utilise the pattern of energy consumption among households and make it cost-effective for them.