Geographical Information System (GIS), a part of digitalization, can reduce power system losses and cost along with increasing consumer service, and all power distribution and transmission companies will have to introduce it.
State Minister for power, energy and mineral resources Nasrul Hamid made the statement at a seminar titled 'Workshop on NESCO’S Experience Towards Smart Distribution System'.
State-owned Northern Electricity Supply Company plc-NESCO is going to implement the GIS based management system in its distribution area with technical support of NRECA International of the United States.
The seminar was organised on Thursday night at a hotel in the capital in this regard.
Nasrul Hamid said “the system loss in electricity was 42 percent 20 years ago, which is now only seven percent. I think another two percent reduction will come through GIS. We always welcome innovative ideas. Thanks to NESCO for starting the work. Such an initiative will ensure better and uninterrupted service to the consumers along with saving money.”
“It’s a wonderful project. I hope this project will be completed within the stipulated time. Besides, other distribution and transmission companies which have not yet started such work will soon take the initiative,” he added.
The State Minister said wide application of smart technology for Digital Bangladesh will effectively contribute to the real service of the people. If any problem arises, it will be possible to identify it using technology and solve it accordingly. The distribution companies will have to introduce more consumer-friendly latest technology.
Advising to increase income, Nasrul said distribution companies can generate their own electricity through solar projects.
“Next year is a critical year. Everyone should come forward so that we can provide uninterrupted electricity service across the country,” he added.
Zakiul Islam, Managing Director of NESCO said, “Transparency, accountability and quality of service will be improved through GIS system. This system will automatically send messages to the control room if any fault occurs anywhere in our distribution area, which will help to ensure best service for our consumers. There are also many other digital services in the system.”
Among others Mohammad Habibur Rahman, Secretary of Power Division, and Daniel B. Waddle, senior vice president of NRECA International also spoke at the event presided over by Additional Secretary of Power Division and Project Director Mohammad Nurul Alam.
