State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) has announced the successful upgrade of its network to a smart grid, a significant milestone aimed at improving power management and efficiency. The announcement was made by Managing Director Hussain Fahmy during a press conference dedicated to the smart grid project.
Fahmy revealed that all STELCO engines are now operated using a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, with the distribution network upgraded to a smart grid. This technological advancement enables centralised control and real-time monitoring of transformer loads from STELCO’s head office in Malé. Fahmy also highlighted that a new system has been implemented to manage engine operations through the smart grid.
While Fahmy confirmed the full conversion of the network to a smart grid, he noted that the installation of smart meters remains ongoing. He explained that the delay in the rollout of smart meters was necessary to first establish a robust smart grid infrastructure, ensuring a seamless integration once the entire system is fully operational. The company plans to transition all customers to smart meters within the next three years.
Chief Technical Officer Ahmed Iqbal added that the smart grid system has been installed on all but three islands where STELCO provides electricity. He projected that the smart grid will be fully operational by the end of next year, allowing for comprehensive monitoring of electricity loads across all serviced islands from the head office. According to Iqbal, the smart grid will also significantly reduce the time required to restore power during outages, enhancing overall service reliability.
STELCO’s move to a smart grid represents a significant step towards modernising the country’s power infrastructure, promising a more efficient and responsive electricity network for all its customers.
