Vijayawada Municipal Corporation is spending around Rs. 3.53 crores for power consumption, i.e., nearly 75% of the total expenditure is incurred towards power charges only. In addition to that, the power factor maintained was around 0.90 at the head works. The sluice valves of pump sets on clear water pumping mains were throttled. At some places, the residual head at reservoirs was nullified and a fresh head was being created to lift the clear water which lead to the usage of higher capacity pump sets. To reduce the power bills and overall operation and maintenance cost, the corporation started implementing energy audit and energy savings methods.

• By installing capacitors, the power factor was increased from 0.9 to 0.98. Static head on pumps was reduced by maintaining clear water sumps at maximum water levels.
• Valve throttling was removed completely and all valves at clear water pump sets were completely opened.
• The existing system at one ELSR which was using higher capacity pump sets was duly modified providing online boosters of 12.5 HP motor. A standby motor was also provided to take care of the failures.

• The monthly power bills were reduced to 50-60%.
  
• The corporation could save Rs. 2 to 3 lakhs per month, and on the whole, around Rs. 21.61 lakh savings were made on power by the corporation this year when compared to last year.

The concept can be well-replicated and considerable savings in power can be achieved. Sustainability of this initiative depends upon the level of monitoring the system and continuous upgradation of technology for the energy audit.

For further details, contact:

Mr. Gulzar, IAS
Municipal Commissioner,
Vijayawada Municipal Corporation