CENTRAL ELECTRICITY AUTHORITY (CEA)

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) issued guidelines for fiber cores in Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) and Underground Fiber Optic (UGFO) cables. The guidelines prioritize critical grid communications, enable spare fiber sharing and leasing, emphasize future expansion, and maintain a comprehensive database, supporting standardized power transmission infrastructure and national electricity planning.

Last Updated on 11th March, 2025
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The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has issued guidelines to establish a standardized framework for the usage of fiber cores in Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) and Underground Fiber Optic (UGFO) cables deployed across power transmission networks

Key Highlights of the Guidelines

  • Prioritizing fiber allocation for critical grid communications.
  • Establishing a framework for sharing spare fiber capacity among stakeholders.
  • Permitting leasing of spare fibers for non-grid applications with safeguards.
  • Emphasizing assessment of future grid communication needs.
  • Encouraging installation of OPGW with sufficient fiber cores for future expansions.
  • Maintaining a comprehensive database for fiber allocation and utilization.
  • Offering technological neutrality in implementation approaches

About Central Electricity Authority (CEA)

The CEA is a statutory body established under the Electricity Act, 2003, replacing the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1948.

It functions as an "Attached Office" of the Ministry of Power.

The Authority consists of a Chairperson (who is also the Chief Executive) and up to 14 members, with a maximum of eight full-time members.

Members are appointed by the Central Government based on their expertise in engineering, finance, commerce, economics, and industrial matters.

Functions and Responsibilities

The CEA advises the Central Government on matters related to the national electricity policy and formulates short-term and prospective plans for the development of the electricity system.

It specifies technical standards for the construction of electrical plants, electric lines, and connectivity to the grid, as well as safety and grid standards.

The CEA prepares the National Electricity Plan (NEP) every five years, which is a crucial document guiding the development of the power sector.

The CEA is responsible for the concurrence of hydro power development schemes of central, state, and private sectors.

The CEA is also responsible for upgrading the skills of human resources in the power sector of the country.

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Source:

CNBC TV18

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