NEDO and Nissin Electric launch micro substation demo project

Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) is partnering with Nissin Electric on a demonstration project for micro substations aimed at low-impact power supply in grid-poor regions of India. The project is located on the outskirts of Delhi and is being implemented with TATA Power-Delhi Distribution Limited (TATA Power-DDL).

Part of Japan’s subsidised International Demonstration Project on Technologies for Decarbonisation, the initiative tests micro substations that directly convert extra high-voltage (EHV) power—66kV or higher—into 240V low-voltage power using power voltage transformers (PVTs).

Each micro substation can deliver 100 kVA of low-voltage power, enough to supply 50 to 100 households. The setup includes PVTs, switchgear, lightning arresters, protection systems, and distribution boards.

The model eliminates the need for conventional substations or diesel generators, reducing CO₂ emissions by 45%. It also lowers operating costs and land use, and avoids generator refuelling and maintenance.

Nissin Electric aims to expand the use of this technology in India and similar markets to improve rural electrification and reduce reliance on diesel-based power.