Alstom, manufacturer of transmission and distribution systems, has inaugurated a one-of-its-kind Digital Substation Automation Competence Centre at its Pallavaram plant near Chennai. The new unit will boost the capabilities of Alstom's automation services in the region and strengthen its digital technology. The Pallavaram facility manufactures a complete range of electromechanical relays and MiCOM numerical relays and provides engineering support for conventional and digital control systems.

Speaking on the occasion, Rathin Basu, Managing Director, Alstom T&D India, said, "Alstom T&D India has always been on the leading edge of technological innovation. Alstom has brought in advanced network management and substation automation technology to the Indian transmission domain."

The opening of the Competence Centre will allow further advancement of High, Extra High and Ultra High Voltage (HV, EHV & UHV) and Renewable Power concept thus enabling Alstom to maintain its leadership position in the transmission market. The competence centre would allow further advancement of high, extra-high and ultra- high voltage and renewable power concept and enable Alstom to maintain its leadership position in the transmission market.

Energy utilities worldwide are experimenting with new smart grid systems, adding a new layer of digital equipment onto their existing infrastructures to interconnect all assets.

"The inauguration of the Digital Substation Automation Competence Centre is a milestone for Alstom from a global perspective, and represents our commitment to pursuing R&D and deployment of smart grid technologies in India." said Patrick Plas, Senior Vice President for Grid Power Electronics & Automation of Alstom Grid. The five-decade-old Pallavaram unit will help customers to deploy "smart grid technologies" for a reliable and efficient grid. The Digital Substation Automation Competence Centre is a step forward in Alstom's strategic plans to promote smart grid development in the country.

Apart from serving the domestic market, it would also cater to export markets in the Middle East, Europe and Americas.

Alstom Group registered turnover of Euro 20 billion and booked close to Euro 24 billion in orders during 2012-13. The Group employs 93,000 people in 100 countries.