Power Grid hampers 5G dream; pushes for outdated tech in electricity meters
As India readies to launch 5G services in October, the state-run PGCIL (Power Grid Corporation of India) is still deploying obsolete and dated technology to install 1 crore smart electricity meters that can seriously jeopardize the planned reforms in the electricity sector.
Apparently, this currently focused technology is the latest platform and connectivity solution called NB-IoT (Narrow Band Internet of Things) which can work with both 4G and 5G networks.
NB-IoT is a globally accepted cellular communication technology. It offers enduring cellular technology in both 4G and 5G deployments and is more useful in basements, high-rises, and rural installations of machine-to-machine applications.
Reportedly, in March, based on outdated RF mesh frequency and 2G (second generation) technology, the PGCIL first floated a tender for smart meters. Afterwards, it modified the tender and included NB-IoT technology.
Meanwhile, on August 18, there was yet another revision in the bid, when the central transmission utility again excluded the new and 5G-ready NB-IoT technology.
According to credible industry sources, the reason behind excluding NB-IoT for smart meters is unclear as it is based on the latest state-of-the-art technology and will work well in the future as well.
It has also been disclosed that Power Grid did not opt for NB-IoT as it has not yet been proven on a mass scale.
Recently, the government of India successfully concluded the auction for the 5G spectrum, and the country is set to experience the launch of M2M and various 5G applications.
Additionally, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized the importance and necessity of the launch of 5G services.
As per industry experts, when a country is laced with the latest technology, it is a backward step for a PSU to exclude the advanced technology from its tender.
Sources also cite that the latest technology must be deployed in the power sector for ensuring the longevity of the systems that are put into place.
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Akshay Kedari
A qualified computer engineering graduate, Akshay Kedari takes pride in having his way with words. Following his passion for content creation, he writes insightful pieces on aeresearch.net and a few other portals. Also endorsed with a short-term experience in web development, Akshay lends expertise ...
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