CPRI Unveils Nashik Regional Testing Lab to Speed Up Power Equipment Certification

Union Minister Manohar Lal recently inaugurated the Central Power Research Institute (CPRI), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, at an event. RTL Nashik will provide testing services for a wide range of electrical and power equipment, the Ministry of Power said while announcing the inauguration in a press release.

Manohar Lal Khattar, in a social media post, mentioned that he inaugurated the 7th Regional Testing Laboratory of CPRI at Nashik with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.  He added, "For over six decades, CPRI has been at the forefront of applied research and innovation, strengthening the planning, operation, and control of India’s power systems."

Role of Nashik Regional Testing Laboratory 

Ministry of Power explained that the role of the newly established RTL Nashik is to serve industries in the western region of India, providing testing services for a wide range of electrical and power equipment. He explained, "The RTL would provide items such as transformers, energy meters, smart meters, and transformer oil. This facility is expected to reduce the turnaround time for testing and certification, thereby strengthening the quality assurance ecosystem and facilitating faster procurement cycles by utilities."

Sharing the importance of this project, the minister stated, "The commissioning of RTL Nashik aims to enhance national testing capabilities and technological advancement in the power sector. This laboratory will not only serve industry needs but also contribute to advancing research and development in power sector equipment testing."

During the event, Manohar Lal Khattar emphasized the importance of a robust testing infrastructure in accelerating India’s power sector growth and self-reliance. He also highlighted the role of CPRI in providing testing and research services in line with global benchmarks. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in his address, said that the Regional Testing Laboratory at Nashik can help facilitate quality assurance and the growth of the electrical industry in Maharashtra.

Chagan Bhujbal, Minister of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Protection of Maharashtra, in his address, spoke about the laboratory’s role in rural development and strengthening the government’s development policies. Girish Mahajan, Minister of Water Resources & Crisis Management of Maharashtra, highlighted the importance of the laboratory in the power sector, ensuring quality products and opportunities for the rural sector.