Making the city’s growing power needs evident is the fact that Bengaluru has put to use almost six times more heavy-load private transformers than regular transformers, a norm for big apartment complexes and industries. These transformers, called self-execution transformers, are meant for buildings that use a load of 35 KW or above.
However, the rules applicable to self-execution transformers have remained the same, despite the fact that the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) has sanctioned the installation of as many as 12,010 self-execution transformers in the last five years in the Bengaluru metropolitan areas alone. In contrast, the number of regular transformers installed in the corresponding period, that cater to consumers using lower loads, was only 2,271.
Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWA) are now calling for some changes in these regulations, which also specify where the transformers should be installed. For instance, one member of an RWA near Whitefield questioned why the transformers were not allowed to be installed at the back, instead of at the entrance of apartment complexes. They are also seeking a policy for self-execution transformers, including incentivising associations for maintenance of transformers.
A bulk of the 12,000-odd self-execution transformers were serviced for layouts, offices and apartment complexes.
“Every year, around 10 per cent is added to the tally of self-serviced transformers. The maintenance for one is theirs, after which the responsibility falls on us,” explained the official. However, RWA members say Bescom’s maintenance work is more ‘corrective rather than preventive.’ “If there is a failure of the transformer, the non-availability of electricity paralyses the whole society. Every time we have to get this repaired or we need to get the oil changed for maintenance, we usually seek approval of the Bescom and get it done from an approved contractor,” said an RWA member of a 500-flat apartment complex in Kundalahalli, which has 16 transformers of varying sizes.
Transformers in the city
Number of self-execution transformers installed across Bengaluru: 12,010
Number of regular transformers installed across Bengaluru: 2,271
Criteria
Load should be
35KW or more
Built up area should be 800 sqmts or more
Requirement: Space of 3x5 meters to be provided open to sky, preferably at main entrance of premises
