IT in Power Sector A KPCL Implementation

n this paper we investigate the extent of Information Technology penetration in Power sector, taking KPCL , Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd., a premier power generating , a state owned public sector organization as an example. Any organization to flourish, adoption of Information Technology is inevitable in the days of fast changing technological advancements. It is not merely the investment on IT which helps but adoption of right IT solutions and the optimum use of the same does matter and becomes most critical. A strong infrastructure coupled with modern technical and management concepts has helped KPCL to meet the challenges of the rising energy demands of Karnataka. A theoretical framework of the technology implemented in KPCL communication is discussed. This discussion is focused on the advantages of using the new technology (MPLS) over traditional systems which is in use and the related applications and services provided by the existing system. The issues among local connectivity and remote connectivity which are geographically distributed are addressed with the use of LANs and either VSAT or MPLS respectively. The contribution highlights the differences in varying levels of applications and services between VSAT and MPLS technology. Finally a list of applications are presented that can benefit from the computerization in the enterprise segment. I INTRODUCTION Karnataka, the eighth largest state in India. Rich in natural resources has the unique distinction of Asia's first hydroelectric power station established in 1902 at Shivasamudram on the banks of the river Cauvery. In fact Karnataka pioneering spirit in the field of power has been translated into several major milestones. Karnataka was the first to embark on Alternating Energy when Bangalore city's lighting scheme was completed. Karnataka was the first to have the longest transmission line in the world in 1902 from Shivasamudram to KGF covering a distance of 147 kms. Karnataka was also the first state in the country to conceive and set up a professionally managed corporation to plan, construct, operate and maintain power generation projects in the state, thus was the born of KPCL, Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd., [1] It has been a long, rewarding journey. A journey fraught with trials and triumphs with challenges and achievements. Today, KPCL takes great pride in the experience it has gathered, the expertise it has developed and the skills it has honed. Especially in the planning, investigation, design, execution and effective operation of large power projects. KPCL's Mission The Mission …