As the world races toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, India stands at a pivotal juncture. The energy transition — from fossil fuels to renewables — is not just a technological shift; it’s a national imperative. And at the heart of this transition lie three transformative technologies: the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Smart Grids.
Together, they are redefining how we generate, distribute, and consume energy. For the Indian electrical and allied electronics industry, this evolution is not just a challenge; it’s a vast opportunity.
Also Read: The secret to IDBI Capital’s AIF success: ESG and strategic funds
Smarter systems for a complex grid
The integration of large-scale renewable energy sources like solar and wind brings unpredictability to the power grid. Unlike conventional power generation, renewables are variable and decentralised. Managing this complexity requires intelligence — real-time data, predictive analytics, and automated responses — all of which are enabled by IoT and AI.
Smart grids, empowered by IoT devices, allow for two-way communication between utilities and consumers. This opens the door to demand-side management, time-of-use pricing, remote diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. IoT-enabled devices across the grid also allow remote diagnostics and dynamic load balancing
Smart power grids make it possible to integrate rooftop solar, electric vehicles and battery storage seamlessly into the grid, while also empowering consumers to become active participants in the energy economy
AI algorithms can forecast demand, optimise generation, and ensure grid stability, all while reducing costs and emissions.
The Indian opportunity
India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and its focus on electrifying transport and enhancing energy access in rural areas have set the stage for rapid modernisation of the power sector with smart power tech. This transformation demands smart meters, sensors, communication infrastructure, and data-driven platforms — all of which fall squarely within the capabilities of Indian manufacturers.
The Indian electrical and electronics industry, represented by IEEMA, has a unique advantage. We have a deep legacy of engineering talent, robust manufacturing infrastructure, and growing digital expertise. By investing in R&D, partnering with tech innovators, and skilling our workforce in emerging technologies, we can become global leaders in the smart energy ecosystem.
From Make in India to innovate in India
The convergence of energy and digital technologies also signals a broader shift — from merely making in India to innovating in India. Indian companies must move up the value chain by designing intelligent products, developing proprietary platforms, and embedding AI and IoT capabilities into the grid infrastructure.
Government initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), and PLI schemes for electronics and semiconductors are providing strong tailwinds. But the real acceleration will come from collaboration — between industry, startups, utilities, and academia. The future of energy is smart, sustainable and software-defined, it is time to reimagine Make in India as made smarter in India.
As we embrace this new era of intelligent energy, IEEMA is committed to fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives. We are engaging with policymakers to ensure enabling regulations, supporting members with digital capacity building, and creating platforms like ELECRAMA and the World Utility Summit for global dialogue.
The energy transition is not a distant dream—it’s happening now. IoT, AI, and smart grids are the tools that will shape our future. The Indian electrical and electronics industry has the potential—and the responsibility—to lead this transformation, not just for India but for the world.
Let us seize this moment to electrify, digitise and lead!
