'AI could be game changer for distributed RE, treat it as development infra', Pg17

Key Highlights:

• JVN Subramanyam highlighted AI's potential to revolutionize India's expanding Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) sector at the India AI Impact Summit.
• India's non-fossil fuel sources constitute 52% of the total installed power capacity, amounting to approximately 272 GW, with solar contributing 140 GW, including 38 GW from DRE.
• Over the past 15 months, India has augmented the DRE sector by almost 18 GW through initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana.
• Hemang Jani emphasized the importance of treating AI as a development infrastructure to transform the energy sector.

Detailed Insights:

• Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) systems involve small-scale, decentralized power generation from renewable sources near the point of use, enhancing energy access and reducing transmission losses.
• The incorporation of technology solutions has driven the recent scale-up in DRE, benefiting consumers, field workers, vendors, banks, and Distribution Companies (Discoms).
• AI can enhance demand response management, asset maintenance, and provide weather forecasting and predictive analytics for generators and prosumers.
• Structural challenges in the distribution network, originally designed for unidirectional power flow, necessitate AI to manage the increasing number of prosumers.
• Accelerating energy transition, characterized by rising renewable penetration and decentralization, requires AI to manage the increasing complexity of power systems.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE): Decentralized power generation from renewable sources near the point of use.
• Prosumers: Consumers who also generate electricity, especially in the context of renewable energy.
• Demand Response Management: Adjusting electricity consumption in response to supply conditions or price signals.