MSEDCL set to minimise electricity consumption

To replace magnetic chokes with electronic ones

To reduce peak load, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSEDCL) has decided to replace 1 crore common magnetic chokes of 40 watt tube lights with energy efficient electronic ballasts or chokes.

In the first phase, this pilot project will be implemented in Nashik zone with replacement of 25 lakh magnetic chokes with energy efficient electronic ballasts in one year.

The Nashik zone includes, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Jalgaon, Dhule and Nandurbar districts.

Today, electricity demand in Maharashtra is 12,000 mw and the state is still facing shortage of 4,500 mw. Out of 12,000 mw, the demand in Nashik zone alone is 20 per cent (2,200 mw).

In the peak hours of evening, the electricity demand in the state is 3,000 mw, which includes 75 mw from the Nashik zone.

To cater to the demand, MSEDCL purchases electricity at Rs 7.50 per unit. MSEDCL has decided to replace 25 lakh magnetic chokes with electronic ballasts in Nashik zone in one year.

Thereafter, this pilot project will be implemented in other 10 zones in Maharashtra. Due to use of electronic ballasts, it will be possible for MSEDCL to avoid high cost power purchase at evening peak hours.

"The magnetic choke of a 40-watt tube light consumes more power (55 to 60 watts). But, the energy efficient electronic ballasts, if used, will save at least 40 per cent electricity as compared to that of common magnetic chokes. MSEDCL has set the target of changing 25 lakh tube light chokes in Nashik zone. Currently, the total electricity load of these 25 lakh choke tube lights is 100 mw. Due to 40 per cent saving of electricity because of energy efficient electronic ballasts, the electricity demand for 2,200 mw in Nashik zone will definitely reduce by 40 mw," said Sharad Dabhade, executive director, MSEDCL.

This 40 mw electricity saving in the Nashik zone will avoid an investment of Rs 360 crore. The saving of Rs 16 per 40-watt tube light per month will be possible in the electricity bill due to use of electronic ballasts.

The market price of single electronic ballast is Rs 350, which MSEDCL will make available at the concession rate of Rs 175 per electronic ballast. This amount will be reduced at the rate of Rs 10 per month from the electricity bill.

Electronic ballast increases light output by 10 per cent due to high frequency operation. The tube light does not need starter for operation and it strikes at very low voltage. Improved light comfort and higher colour reducing index are its features.