In response to frequent power outages caused by storms, heavy rains, and lightning strikes in various districts of Bihar, the North Bihar Power Distribution Company (NBPDCL) is implementing a new initiative. The company is adopting an advanced technology known as "Spike Earthing," which has already been successfully deployed in West Bengal.
NBPDCL has planned to roll out this technology across districts like Muzaffarpur. Currently, it is being launched as a pilot project, with necessary financial provisions in place. If the project proves successful, it will be expanded to other districts in Bihar, aiming to reduce power interruptions during adverse weather conditions.
Why Spike Earthing Technology is Crucial?
Power disruptions during intense storms and heavy rainfall are a common issue in Bihar. During such events, problems like burning of insulators and wires often arise, leading to interruptions in power supply. To address these issues, NBPDCL has decided to adopt the Spike Earthing technology.
The primary purpose of Spike Earthing is to protect power transmission lines from damage caused by storms and torrential rains. Under this technology, 25x6 mm, 1.5-meter GL flat, and 2.5-meter-long Spike Earthing electrodes will be used in 11 kV and 33 kVA poles. These electrodes are designed with specific holes that help in safeguarding the system’s insulation.
Spike Earthing Trial in Muzaffarpur
In Muzaffarpur district, areas like Kurhani, Kanti, Aurai, Katra, Gaighat, and Madwan frequently experience power supply disruptions during the rainy season due to problems like burning of insulators, wires, and frequent breakdowns. To combat these issues, NBPDCL has decided to conduct a trial of Spike Earthing technology on one of the district’s four main power transmission lines.
Recently, during a severe storm and rain in North Bihar, lightning strikes caused widespread power outages in areas like Kanti, Madwan, Kurhani, Aurai, and Minapur in Muzaffarpur. Some areas experienced power cuts for up to six days, leading to not only revenue loss for the power company but also significant consumer dissatisfaction. To prevent such situations in the future, NBPDCL is fast-tracking the implementation of Spike Earthing, with work expected to start within a week.
Implementation of Spike Earthing in Other Circles
According to an NBPDCL engineer, the Spike Earthing technology is widely used in West Bengal’s power transmission lines, where it has proven effective in maintaining power supply even during severe storms, heavy rains, and lightning strikes. Based on this success, NBPDCL has planned to implement this technology in Bihar as well. Initially, it will be tested in Kishanganj, and if successful, it will be expanded to the Muzaffarpur circle and other areas.
What is Spike Earthing Technology?
The Spike Earthing technology is primarily designed to protect power transmission lines from damage caused by natural disasters. This technology involves the use of 25x6 mm, 1.5-meter GL flat, and 2.5-meter-long Spike Earthing electrodes on 11 kV and 33 kVA poles. These electrodes are specially designed with holes to ensure the protection of the system’s insulation. The technology is particularly useful in maintaining consistent power supply during adverse weather conditions such as storms, heavy rains, and lightning strikes.
With the successful implementation of this technology, Bihar is expected to see a significant reduction in power outages during storms, ensuring a more reliable power supply for its residents.
