DISCOM Demand Side Management & Energy Efficiency Program
Project Overview
From 2018 to 2021, this nationwide Demand Side Management (DSM) and energy efficiency initiative for power distribution companies (DISCOMs) was run in partnership with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The program aimed to build DISCOM capabilities to manage electricity demand growth in a sustainable way.
The core of the project was developing DSM Action Plans for utilities - essentially roadmaps of energy-saving measures and load management strategies - and supporting their implementation. It also involved capacity building through training workshops and integration of energy efficiency programs into DISCOM operations.
By reducing peak demand and improving end-use efficiency, the project sought to defer expensive capacity additions and reduce power procurement costs for utilities. The project also supported the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme's Monitoring & Verification for the power sector.
Key Outcomes
- DSM Action Plans developed for multiple state DISCOMs
- Hundreds of DISCOM personnel trained across India
- Established dedicated DSM cells in participating utilities
- Created network of trained master trainers for continued DSM efforts
- Energy audit and loss reduction recommendations adopted
- Contributed to India's national energy efficiency goals through PAT M&V
Team Contributions
Responsibilities
Served as subject matter expert and project manager coordinating with numerous state power utilities including Odisha DISCOMs, WBSEDCL, TPDDL, BYPL, UP and Uttarakhand utilities, JKPDD, PSPCL, UHBVN/DHBVN, JdVVNL, and others:
- Conducted baseline load research and analysis
- Identified DSM interventions for peak shaving and energy savings
- Led development of comprehensive DSM Action Plans
- Organized and led capacity-building workshops for DISCOM officials
- Oversaw energy audit studies within distribution networks
- Verified energy savings and compliance under PAT scheme
Key Achievements
Significantly boosted readiness of participating DISCOMs to implement DSM and efficiency programs. Several utilities established dedicated DSM cells and incorporated DSM targets into their business plans. Cumulatively built capacity of hundreds of DISCOM personnel across India.
References & Sources
The objectives and design of this capacity-building program are reflected in BEE's official program documentation. The Bureau's DSM capacity-building initiative outlines goals of helping DISCOMs create DSM action plans and implement load management activities.
Many of the client utilities have since publicly reported DSM measures - utility annual reports mentioning new DSM programs or energy savings achieved. TERI press releases on the DISCOM capacity building program underscore the work done - establishing DSM cells, training master trainers, and integrating DSM in utility operations.