CEA Issues Guidelines For Efficient Use And Sharing Of Optical Fibers In Power Systems

Posted On - 8 April, 2025 • By - King Stubb & Kasiva

Introduction

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) recently issued guidelines to optimize the utilization and sharing of optical fibers laid in power transmission infrastructure.[1] Optical fibers laid in overhead ground wires (OPGW) and all-dielectric self-supporting (ADSS) cables are a vital component of modern power systems, enabling real-time communication, grid monitoring, and smart grid operations. Inefficiency, redundancy, and additional cost, however, arise from inefficient utilization of these fibers and patchy management practices. The new guidelines aim to address these inefficiencies by promoting collaborative frameworks, standardized protocols, and resource-sharing mechanisms among power utilities, telecom operators, and other stakeholders. The initiative aligns with India’s vision to enhance grid resilience, enable renewable energy integration, and drive national digital connectivity.

Explanation (Key Points)

  1. Standardization of Optical Fiber Networks

The CEA needs standardized technological specifications for the installation, maintenance, and upgrading of optical fibers in power grids. They include fiber capacity, telecom network compatibility, and redundancy measures. Standardization allows interoperability at different power utilities and reduces technical barriers to the sharing of resources.

  1. Resource Sharing and Partnerships

Utilities are being urged to rent excess fiber-optic capacity to telecom operators, government agencies, or other private organizations. Shared infrastructure cuts down on redundancy, decreases the capital outlay, and is also a source of revenue for the power utilities. The guidelines are suggesting contractual arrangements, price modalities, and conflict resolution modalities to encourage partnerships.

  1. Prioritization of Grid Operations

While promoting sharing, the CEA emphasizes that optical fibers must first serve core power system functions, such as:

  1. Grid Communication: SCADA systems, teleprotection, and fault detection.
  2. Renewable Integration: Monitoring and balancing decentralized solar/wind projects.
  3. Disaster Management: Ensuring uninterrupted communication during grid emergencies.
  4. Cybersecurity and Data Integrity

Shared usage generates cyber threats. Rules require utilities to use robust encryption, access controls, and real-time monitoring systems. Key grid communication networks must be isolated from public telecom traffic in order not to be subject to cyber attacks.

  1. Optimal Capacity Planning

The utilities need to carry out periodic audits to determine usage of fibers and project future demand. The CEA advises using the newest technologies such as dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) to increase the existing fibers’ capacity without physical upgradation.

  1. Regulatory Compliance and Accountability

State regulators will implement the guidelines. Utilities will be required to report annually on fiber usage, leasing income, and infrastructure upgrades. Non-compliance may result in fines or restricted access to central funds for grid projects.

  1. Environmental and Cost Benefits

Through lesser demand for new fiber roll-outs, the policies aim to curtail land conflicts, material losses, and emissions. Shared infrastructure decreases operational costs of both the power and telecomm sectors as well.

Conclusion

The CEA guidelines are a step ahead in integrating India’s power and digital infrastructure. Through facilitating coordination between utilities and telecom players, the policy enables the maximum use of optical fibers, grid reinforcement, and accelerating the transition to smart grids. Execution, however, rests on good governance, stakeholder coordination, and continued investment in cybersecurity. While power grids are being transformed to meet renewable energy and digitalization objectives, these guidelines will be the passport to a connected, sustainable energy future.

[1] https://cea.nic.in/wp-content/uploads/notification/2025/03/Final_Guidelines_approved.pdf