- Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) wants to be part of Delhi’s Islanding Scheme to keep power running during grid failures.
- Challenges include handling the metro’s very changeable traction load that affects system stability.
- Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) and State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) will review and update the scheme with future studies and other backup power options.
Delhi Metro’s nonstop operation is very important for millions of commuters, making the Islanding Scheme a key protection against power grid failures. This scheme, run by Delhi Transco Limited (DTL), aims to keep power flowing to important infrastructure like the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Knowing why this scheme matters and the recent updates about DMRC joining can help you understand the efforts to keep the metro running smoothly even when power is disrupted.
What the Islanding Scheme Means for Delhi Metro
In power systems, islanding is a safety feature where a part of the power grid keeps supplying electricity on its own when the main grid goes down. This is especially important for essential services like the Delhi Metro, which serves about 5 lakh commuters during busy hours. Without this scheme, power cuts could stop metro services, causing trouble and safety issues for passengers.
Even though it is a lifeline for the city, DMRC was not included in the updated Islanding Scheme, 2023 by DTL. Understanding the need for continuous power, DMRC recently made a formal request during the Operation Coordination Committee (OCC) meeting to be added to the scheme. The request stressed the need for arrangements that keep power flowing to DMRC substations during grid problems or failures.
Challenges in Adding Delhi Metro to the Islanding Scheme
One big challenge in including DMRC in the Islanding Scheme is the very changeable traction load of the metro system. The traction load changes a lot, with peak loads happening at different times, making it hard to keep the system stable and reliable within the islanded grid. This changeability needs careful handling to avoid affecting the overall power system’s dependability.
Role of Delhi Transco Limited and State Load Dispatch Centre
Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) and the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) are key players in updating and running the Islanding Scheme. The SLDC pointed out that the 765 kV Narela sub-station is being set up and is expected to start working by August 2025. This will affect the islanding plan, leading to a review of the scheme to include new infrastructure and DMRC.
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Next Steps and Other Backup Power Options
At the OCC meeting, DMRC was asked to check if traction load factors are included in islanding schemes in other states. Also, DMRC was encouraged to look into other backup power options to improve operation during grid failures. A detailed study on the updated islanding plan after the Narela sub-station starts working was also suggested. DMRC is expected to come up with workable solutions to handle its variable traction load well, allowing smooth inclusion in the islanding scheme without hurting system stability.
These ongoing efforts show a forward-thinking approach to keep Delhi Metro running even during power grid problems, protecting the daily travel of thousands of people.