The session on “Skill Development for Transmission” featured a panel discussion between Dr Yatindra Dwivedi, Director (Personnel), Power Grid Corporation of India (Powergrid); and Dr V.K. Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Power Sector Skill Council. The discussion focused on the skill requirement in the power transmission sector, Powergrid’s initiatives for skill enhancement and the future outlook…
India stands at a unique juncture, where it has the potential to become a global hub for skilled manpower, especially in the power sector. The demographic dividend – a young, growing population – offers an opportunity to build a skilled workforce. While technology has streamlined many operations, new skills are constantly needed to replace obsolete ones. In fact, what information technology replaced in 20 years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are set to replace in just two. Notably, the transmission sector, a critical component of the power ecosystem, is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by unprecedented growth in electricity demand, the integration of renewable energy and technological advancements. To meet the challenges of this rapidly evolving landscape, skill development of the workforce in transmission has become more crucial than ever.
Skill requirements
The transmission sector’s rapidly changing landscape requires a workforce that is adaptable and technically proficient. The timeline for completing power projects has shortened considerably – from four to five years for thermal projects and six to ten years for hydro projects, to just one to two years for renewable energy projects. Consequently, transmission evacuation systems must also evolve swiftly. This demand for agility has reshaped skill requirements across the sector. There is a need to build a workforce that can adapt to these fast-paced changes. Traditionally, transmission companies would build this over a period of three to four years. However, the timeline has now been narrowed to one and a half to two years. As a result, the future skill set needs of the sector are changing significantly. Moreover, the workforce needs to be trained in emerging technologies such as AI, ML, data analytics and internet of things.
The integration of renewable energy into the grid brings its own set of challenges, such as variability and intermittency. The workforce now needs to be trained in managing these fluctuations, as well as in handling new technologies such as energy storage systems and high voltage direct current systems. Offshore wind energy, which requires unique expertise in sea cable laying, platform setting and interconnection, represents another frontier where specialised skills are essential.
One of the challenges in skilling the workforce is retention. Given that transmission projects are often located in remote areas, retaining workers there can be difficult, leading to high attrition. However, with the implementation of suitable policies to support the workforce, the attrition rate can be significantly reduced.
Powergrid’s initiatives
Recognising the importance of skilling, Powergrid has taken various steps to address skill gaps. Through initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and state-level skill development schemes, Powergrid is providing adequate training to the workforce. Notably, Powergrid’s skilling initiatives extend beyond their own workforce. It has established skill development centres in regions such as Malda in West Bengal and Bihar to train unemployed youth in transmission line erection and other technical skills. These initiatives not only provide job opportunities for young people, but also ensure that Powergrid’s subcontractors have access to a skilled labour pool. Powergrid is also working closely with leading educational institutions such as the IITs, ITIs and other technical schools to further expand its skilling initiatives. The PowerGrid Academy of Leadership in Manesar is a state-of-the-art training facility for Powergrid’s employees as well as a training hub for workers from state utilities and foreign countries.
The way forward
As India’s transmission sector experiences unprecedented growth, the demand for a skilled and agile workforce is increasing rapidly. With the growing automation, AI and renewable energy integration, the skills required to manage these new technologies will be in high demand.
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