MSETCL plans for Aluminum Conductor Composite Core (ACCC) wires around India's Nashik

The Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (MSETCL) has planned for high ampacity power supply through cables having aluminium composite core around India’s Nashik city connecting seven of its 132 kv power stations to deliver quality power to the citizens.

The decision follows major power outages in the city which has already taken off as a major business hub of the country.

MSETCL has successfully tested the use of the high ampacity cables for transmission of 1,32,000 volt (132 kv) power lines between Eklahara (Nashik Thermal Power Station) and Ozhar sub-stations. After that, it has been updating its transmission lines using the technology.

"The high ampacity cables will be able to withhold exta load and would not lead to such a situation (power failure)," a senior MSETCL officer said.

"Tthe Aluminum Conductor Composite Core (ACCC) wires tend to carry more amount of current when they are heated. So the current being carried almost doubles. Nashik showcases the best situation where new cables can be used for improving services. In the current scenario the load handled by the cables is at optimal levels but considering the expansion of the city in the future, we need to raise more towers to bring in more power. Since there is no space to raise towers and draw additional lines in the city, the only solution remains is to replace the cables," the officer said.

The new aluminium cables will be raised at a cost of INR 6 crore per 18km totaling up to INR 42 crore. The proposal has been sent to the central office and also has been approved in principle. "There are several queries that have to be answered after which the central office will approve it," the officer said. Of all these issue, the fact that Aluminum Conductor Composite Core (ACCC) (wire) is 1.5 times costlier than conventional wire, remains a major concern.