IN A major milestone for emergency operational readiness, the Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Limited (MPPGCL) successfully carried out its first-ever ‘Black Start Mock Drill’ on Thursday. The vital joint exercise tested the power system’s capability to systematically restore electricity generation in the event of a total or partial grid blackout. Conducted between 11:30 am and 1:51 pm, the drill brought together technical teams from Satpura Thermal Power Station in Sarni, Indira Sagar Hydroelectric Project in Khandwa and State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC). The operation adhered strictly to the provisions outlined in the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC), 2023. A ‘Black Start’ is a critical gridrestoration procedure where a generating plant uses self-starting energy sources to bring auxiliary systems online without relying on external power.

 

During this drill, electricity was routed from Indira Sagar Hydroelectric Project via a specialised islanding mechanism to jumpstart the 500 MW (2×250 MW) Satpura Thermal Power Station. Engineers successfully charged 400 kV system, energised the station transformer and restored essential auxiliary power systems in a precise, predetermined sequence. All key electrical parameters were continuously monitored and successfully met within the stipulated technical guidelines. Chief Engineer and Station Head S K Lilhore, along with Superintending Engineer Yashwant Varathe and other senior technical staff, oversaw the operation. The successful trial highlights MPPGCL’s technical expertise and inter-agency co-ordination. By validating its disaster response protocols, the utility company has proven its ability to swiftly handle major grid emergencies, ensuring minimal downtime and rapid power restoration for the State.