DR. SATISH CHETWANI
Q.Could you share an overview of ERDA’s mission and vision, and highlight how the organization has successfully maintained its position as a leading research and development body in India’s electrical and power sectors?
ERDA’s mission is to deliver advanced research, development, and testing services that improve the reliability, efficiency, and safety of electrical systems. Our vision is to become a globally recognized laboratory and centre of excellence in R&D for the electrical industry and utilities. Over the years, ERDA has strengthened its leadership by consistently investing in state-of-the-art testing infrastructure, building strong industry partnerships, and maintaining internationally recognized quality standards. Our ability to adapt to evolving challenges and provide comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, utilities, and policymakers has established us as a trusted name in the sector
Q.With 39 state-of-the-art centres across India, how does ERDA strategically position these facilities to effectively meet the varying needs of clients across different regions?
ERDA’s network of 39 state-of-the-art laboratories is strategically positioned to provide industryspecific solutions while ensuring easy accessibility for our clients. Our approach centres on aligning the capabilities of each facility with regional industrial needs, guaranteeing quick turnaround times. This customer-centric model enables us to effectively serve a broad spectrum of sectors, from power transmission and distribution to renewable energy and industrial applications, establishing ERDA as a truly national partner in electrical testing and research.
Q.Can you elaborate on the differences in services provided at your headquarters in Vadodara versus the regional laboratories in Navi Mumbai, Gurgaon, and Rajahmundry?
ERDA’s Vadodara headquarters stands as the core of our research and development efforts, featuring advanced testing facilities, specialized laboratories, and innovation hubs. It leads the way in driving new technological advancements and delivering industry-wide solutions, while maintaining ERDA’s rigorous quality standards across all locations. Our regional laboratories in Navi Mumbai, Gurugram, and Rajahmundry are designed to focus on localized testing requirements and provide onsite field and calibration services, ensuring quicker response times for clients in these regions. Each facility has specialized capabilities tailored to meet the unique demands of their respective regions:
ERDA, Navi Mumbai In-House Evaluation:
• Distribution Transformers (up to 33kV, 200kVA)
• Instrument Transformers (up to 33kV, 3000A)
• Transformer Oil Testing (Oil in Use)
• Calibration of various equipment Field Services:
• Onsite evaluation of power transformers (up to 100 MVA, 220 kV)
• Calibration of various equipment
ERDA, Navi Mumbai In-House Evaluation:
• Distribution Transformers (up to 33kV, 200kVA)
• Instrument Transformers (up to 33kV, 3000A)
• Transformer Oil Testing (Oil in Use)
• Calibration of various equipment Field Services:
• Onsite evaluation of power transformers (up to 100 MVA, 220 kV)
• Calibration of various equipment
Field Services:
• Onsite evaluation of power transformers (up to 100 MVA, 220 kV)
• Calibration of various equipment
ERDA, Rajahmundry In-House Evaluation:
• Transformer Oil Laboratory (Oil in Use)
Field Services:
• Calibration of Energy Meters While all ERDA laboratories adhere to the highest standards of testing and quality, our Vadodara headquarters remains the primary hub for innovation and comprehensive research, playing a central role in advancing the electrical industry and supporting the ongoing development of the sector across India.
Q.What are the core services offered by ERDA, including testing and evaluation, field services, and R&D, and how do your testing and evaluation processes enhance the reliability and safety of electrical systems?
ERDA offers a comprehensive suite of services, including testing and evaluation, field services, and research & development (R&D), designed to support the electrical industry. Our testing and evaluation services span a broad range of electrical products, including transformers, cables, conductors, energy meters, switchgear products, bushings, and insulators, ensuring strict compliance with both national and international standards. Accredited by key national bodies such as NABL, BIS, and BEE, as well as international organizations like Intertek (ASTA), DEWA (Dubai), KAHRAMAA (Qatar), and TNB (Malaysia), our state-of-the-art laboratories perform rigorous performance, safety, and reliability tests. These evaluations empower manufacturers to meet regulatory requirements, enhance product quality, and improve the safety and reliability of electrical systems, ultimately contributing to the overall quality, safety and efficiency of the power sector. Our field services portfolio includes a comprehensive range of offerings designed to support the electrical industry:
• Evaluation of Power Transformers (up to 500 MVA, 400 kV Class)
• Calibration of Equipment at manufacturer’s premises
• Third-Party Inspection • Combined Testing of CTPT Energy Meters for HT consumers
• Mobile Van Services for onsite evaluation of transformer oil and calibration requirements
These services enable clients to optimize asset reliability, enhance performance, and minimize downtime by ensuring that critical equipment remains in working condition. Through our R&D and expert services, we drive innovation by developing advanced testing methodologies, improving diagnostics, and providing energy efficiency solutions. Additionally, we focus on addressing emerging industry challenges, helping clients stay ahead of evolving demands in the electrical and power sectors. By integrating cutting-edge technology, rigorous evaluation processes, and industry expertise, ERDA ensures that electrical systems operate with enhanced reliability, efficiency, and safety. This commitment not only benefits the domestic market but also positions ERDA as a trusted partner for global stakeholders, contributing to the advancement of electrical infrastructure worldwide.
Q.How does ERDA ensure its compliance with key national and international standards, including NABL, BIS, BEE, and ASTA certifications, and how do these certifications enhance your ability to serve both domestic and global clients effectively?
ERDA is accredited by leading national bodies such as NABL, NABCB, BIS, BEE, MNRE, TEC, and PESO, as well as international accreditations from organizations like ASTA (UK), UCA, DEWA (Dubai), KAHRAMAA (Qatar), TNB (Malaysia), and NEA (Nepal). These accreditations and approvals ensure that our testing and certification services
align with the highest global standards. By meeting stringent regulatory requirements, ERDA enhances its credibility, allowing Indian manufacturers to enter international markets with confidence as well as evaluating globally manufactured products to meet Indian Standards. Our commitment to these standards reflects our dedication to quality, safety, and continuous improvement, enabling us to serve both domestic and global clients efficiently.
Q. In the face of a rapidly changing power and energy landscape, how is ERDA driving innovation to maintain its competitive edge in the industry?
With innovation at the core of our strategy, ERDA is pioneering next-generation testing solutions for renewable energy systems, electric mobility infrastructure, and smart grid technologies. We consistently invest in advanced research, cuttingedge methodologies, and state-of-the-art facilities to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry. Our strong collaborations with industry leaders, start-ups, and academic institutions empower us to accelerate breakthrough developments, enhance efficiency, and establish new benchmarks in power and energy solutions. Through this relentless focus on innovation, ERDA continues to reinforce its leadership and ensure long-term competitiveness in a rapidly transforming sector.
Q.What are ERDA’s strategic goals for the next 5-10 years, and how does the organization plan to tackle emerging challenges within India’s power sector?
ERDA aims to expand its footprint in emerging areas such as green energy technologies, energy storage systems, and high-voltage testing. Our strategic roadmap includes several key initiatives:
• Establishing new advanced laboratories, including specialized areas like Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure and Seismic Requirements, to cater to evolving industry needs.
• Opening new regional laboratories in Jhajjar (North India) and the Maharashtra cluster (Western India) to meet the growing demand in India’s electrical industry.
• Strengthening partnerships with global research bodies to foster innovation and knowledge sharing on a global scale.
• Supporting India’s transition to a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure by providing advanced testing and research solutions.
By staying ahead of technological trends and regulatory changes, ERDA is committed to addressing the emerging challenges and shaping the future of India’s power sector.
