Bengaluru, March 31 (NationPress) The Karnataka Energy Department has rolled out several initiatives aimed at guaranteeing a robust and uninterrupted power supply to Intel's SRR4 campus in Bengaluru. This decision follows a high-level review meeting led by Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Gaurav Gupta, according to an official announcement released on Tuesday.

The SRR4 campus is a pivotal component of Intel India's research, development, and engineering sectors, significantly contributing to the company’s worldwide operations.

Ranked among Intel’s largest R&D facilities outside the U.S., it is essential for various core activities, including chip design, software and platform development, data center and cloud technologies, as well as testing and validation, along with advancements in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

During the review, Intel officials raised concerns regarding sporadic power interruptions and pointed out their dependency on grid power, which is currently supported by gas and diesel backup systems.

Despite a generally stable supply, these challenges triggered a comprehensive review aimed at enhancing power reliability further.

Gupta highlighted the importance of a sustainable, long-term strategy, advocating that grid power should act as the primary source, while gas and diesel should only serve as supplementary emergency options.

He mentioned that approximately 50% of the state's grid power is derived from renewable energy, showcasing Karnataka's dedication to sustainability.

During the meeting, a series of immediate, short-term, medium-term, and long-term measures were agreed upon.

These actions include a 2 MVA power boost within 24 hours by Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM), a short-term initiative to install an 800-meter cable from Global Tech Park within 15 days, and a medium-term upgrade involving a 220 kV underground cable by Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) from Hagadur to Exora, expected to be completed within 45 days.

In the long run, Intel will construct a dedicated 66 kV substation on its premises to bolster reliability. Officials from KPTCL also indicated that the current supply is from a single 66 kV source, with efforts in place to introduce an additional source in the upcoming months.

Regarding gas supply, the Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) affirmed that there are no limitations on supply and that availability is being managed through a combination of pooled and spot gas. Improved coordination among all stakeholders was also emphasized.

Intel's SRR4 campus, a 620,000-square-foot greenfield smart building completed in 2018, is distinguished for its cutting-edge construction methods, including a “One Story High Technology” approach that notably reduced building time.

The meeting wrapped up with a clear action plan and coordinated roadmap among agencies to ensure that power supply to the campus remains stable, resilient, and prepared for future demands.