Distribution Networks .. From Temporary Solutions to a Sustainable System: A Technical Vision and Promising Opportunities
Introduction:
As field practitioners in the implementation and supply of electricity networks, we see that the next phase requires focusing on building a strong, durable, and stable distribution network, to be the foundation for all other energy solutions and to ensure it reaches the end consumer efficiently and stably.
Why are we presenting this vision now?
Because rebuilding and rehabilitating the transmission and distribution network today represents a complete national industry and a major investment opportunity. This industry is based on four pillars:
1. Qualified implementation companies for laying 110 and 220 kV lines and 33/11 kV networks.
2. National cable and wire factories.
3. Concrete and steel pole factories.
4. Workshops and factories for assembling and maintaining transformers and distribution panels.
This is a system that requires concerted efforts and needs a national consortium.
First: How does a modern distribution network contribute to improving energy efficiency?
One of the most important axes of network development globally is increasing network efficiency. Modern networks contribute to improving energy transmission efficiency through the use of modern specification conductors and high-efficiency Low Loss distribution transformers compliant with IEC 60076, which reduces technical losses and improves voltage stability. Every improvement in the distribution network is directly reflected in the amount of energy that reaches the consumer.
Investment in rehabilitating the distribution network is a direct investment in increasing the available energy sold to the consumer.
Second: Components of the distribution network and localization opportunities therein
A. Medium Voltage Network (11/33 kV):
It consists of overhead lines with 70-120 mm2 conductors on 11-14 meter poles, with modern protection systems such as RMU and Reclosers.
Associated localization opportunity:
To complete the thousands of kilometers required, we need to localize the concrete and metallic pole industry within the states. One pole factory in each region saves transportation costs which represent 40% of the pole price and ensures continuous availability for the increasing demand.
B. Low Voltage Network (415/240 Volt):
Globally, there is a shift towards Aerial Bundled Cables (ABC) for the safety, stability, and quality of connection it provides to the consumer.
Associated localization opportunity:
The shift to ABC requires huge quantities that cannot be covered by import alone. Here emerges the urgent need to localize the cable and wire industry - a national cable factory producing ABC and XLPE will be the true guarantor of supply stability.
Third: Technical Roadmap - From Urgent Import to Sustainable Manufacturing
1. Distribution Transformers:
The market today urgently needs capacities of 100 - 1000 KVA - 11/0.415 kV with high-efficiency specifications to serve new consumer loads.
Associated localization opportunity:
- Urgent Phase: Transformer assembly and maintenance workshops: To rehabilitate currently faulty transformers and assemble imported CKD transformers, which brings hundreds of transformers back into service within months.
- Strategic Phase: A national transformer factory: To ensure long-term stability and meet the increasing demand from the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
2. Network Materials:
Polymer insulators, circuit breakers, RMU and MDB panels, and earthing systems.
3. Cables:
Localizing their production is the guarantor of business continuity.
Fourth: Technical Training - Capacity Building
The next phase and the localization of industry requires qualified cadres in the installation and maintenance of transformers and overhead networks and the operation of pole and cable factories and transformer winding workshops.
We propose a joint training program between the private sector and the competent technical authorities to grant a "Certified Distribution Technician" certificate.
Fifth: Partnership Mechanism - Integration of Roles
Work is carried out in coordination and integration among all parties under the supervision of the competent technical authorities through a clear mechanism: technical qualification, specification approval, implementation under engineering supervision, and testing and handover to ensure service reaches the consumer with the highest quality.
Conclusion:
Developing the distribution network begins with organized import to achieve urgent stability, but it will not be complete except by localizing the cable, pole, transformer industries and their workshops. Whoever localizes these industries today, guarantees a sustainable market to serve the consumer for the next 30 years.
