New Delhi: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications will play a transformative role in creating intelligent, consumer-centric and self-optimizing power distribution networks, said Mr Manohar Lal, Minister of Power. He was addressing participants at the two-day National Conference on the use of AI/ML technologies in the power distribution sector at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The Minister emphasised that AI/ML-driven tools – such as smart meter analytics, digital twins, predictive maintenance, theft detection intelligence, appliance-level consumer insights, automated outage prediction and GenAI-based decision support – have the potential to reshape operational efficiency and significantly enhance consumer experience.
Active Consumer Engagement Vital for Technology Adoption
Highlighting the importance of public participation, Mr Lal reiterated that active consumer engagement is central to the success of new technologies. He said that the sector must work to dispel misinformation and ensure that consumers feel informed and empowered to support the digital transformation of the power ecosystem.
He noted that AI/ML technologies are redefining the sector by restoring trust, enabling households to better manage consumption, preventing outages before they occur, protecting honest consumers from theft-related burdens, and helping DISCOMs reduce losses, optimise power procurement costs, and reinvest in robust infrastructure. These advances, he said, position India as a global leader in digital electricity reform and future-ready grid governance.
Industry, Academia, and Innovators Lauded for Participation
Mr Lal commended the extensive participation of industry representatives, state utilities, technology innovators, academia, and ecosystem partners at the National Conference. He appreciated the AI/ML solutions presented by Distribution Companies (DISCOMs), Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs), Technology Solution Providers (TSPs), and Home Automation Solution Providers (HASPs).
He urged DISCOMs to collaborate closely with all stakeholders to transition towards more reliable, smart, and consumer-focused distribution systems.
Ministry Reinforces Commitment to Sector Digitalisation
Speaking at the conference, Mr Pankaj Agarwal, an IAS officer of 1992 batch from MP cadre and Secretary, Ministry of Power, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to accelerate digitalization across DISCOMs. He emphasized the importance of adopting AI/ML solutions capable of delivering measurable operational and financial improvements.
Mr Agarwal also highlighted the need for capacity building, secure data-sharing frameworks, and interoperability to ensure that innovations demonstrated at the conference can be replicated nationwide, supporting India’s broader clean energy transition.
Innovation Challenge: 195 Entries, 51 Finalists, Several Winners
As part of the conference, a nationwide call for innovation attracted 195 applications from DISCOMs, AMISPs, TSPs, and Home Automation Solution Providers. Following initial screening, 51 solutions were shortlisted for detailed jury evaluation on Day 1 (December 6, 2025).
After thorough assessment, the following were declared winners –
- DISCOMs Category: TNPDCL (Tamil Nadu), MP East (Madhya Pradesh)
- AMISP Category: Tata Power and Apraava
- Solution Provider Category: Pravah and Flock Energy
- Home Automation Solution Category: Tata Power
The winners presented innovations including advanced smart meter analytics for revenue protection (Tamil Nadu), accurate consumer indexing to reduce losses (MP East), behavioural demand response and AI-based automation (TP Power Plus, Apraava), unified real-time grid intelligence (Pravah, Flock Energy), and futuristic home energy management solutions (Tata Power). They were felicitated by the Minister of Power, who encouraged nationwide scaling of these innovations.
Launch of STELLAR and Release of AI/ML Handbook
Mr Manohar Lal also launched STELLAR (Strategic Expansion for Long Term Load Adequacy and Resilience), developed by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), which will help DISCOMs undertake resource adequacy studies and prepare long-term planning strategies.
Additionally, the India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) released a comprehensive Handbook on AI, ML, AR/VR and Robotics Solutions and Roadmap for Electric Utilities, showcasing 174 use cases, including 45 developed by Indian utilities.
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