In existence for six decades, Rajasthan-based Prem Cables Pvt Ltd is widely regarded as a leading supplier of overhead conductors, cables and aluminium wire rods. We have Abhay P. Shah, Managing Director, Prem Cables Pvt Ltd, discussing the company’s future plans in view of the soaring equipment demand, arising from India’s massive power T&D upgrade. Shah notes that while Prem Cables would like to continue playing a significant role in India’s power sector, the company would also like to expand its footprint to the overseas markets.
Let us start by understanding the various types of conductors produced by Prem Cables.
Established in 1964, we are a leading manufacturer of overhead conductors like AAC, ACSR and AAAC. We are also in the premium segment of Al59 and HTLS conductors. Our product range also includes LT, HT cables and AB cables, apart from various grade of aluminium wire rods.
India is progressing towards high-efficiency conductors like HTLS conductors. What are your plans in this direction?
Yes, HTLS (high-temperature low sag) conductors are need of the hour due to right-of-way (RoW) constraints and other challenges associated with rapid urbanization of Indian towns.
We, at Prem Cables, have taken an aggressive approach in developing HTLS products to meet the growing demand of high performance conductors (HPC) for both the Indian and overseas markets. We have already developed ACSS, TW-shaped conductors and GAP conductors, among other high-performance conductors.
There is also significant traction towards “composite core” conductors that uses carbon core, for instance. Do you plan to enter this field, perhaps as a stranding partner of core manufacturers?
Yes. In fact, we are in discussion with a well-reputed technology provider for a technical tie-up. We are in the advanced stage of signing an agreement with technology partner.
Speaking about cables, we understand that you make aluminium cables. What are the important application areas of this product?
The Union government has rolled out many schemes to upgrade to distribution lines in India. RDSS is one of the major schemes being used by all state utilities. We are proud to say that our cables are being used by many utilities for RDSS scheme across multiple states in the country. Our cables find application in LT power distribution as well as underground transmission.
We also see growing demand for MVCC for power distribution applications. Are you planning to enter this field? From a technical perspective, how is MVCC superior to AB (aerial bunched) cable?
Yes, there is huge demand for MVCC (medium voltage covered conductor) due to its techno-commercial benefits. and its ability to deal with RoW-related challenges.
We are already in the process of commissioning the production lines for MVCC up to 33kV. We expect that commercial supply will start from first quarter (January-March) of 2025.
MVCC is superior in technology as it is produced in triple extruders, and can hence be used in HT power transmission.
Given that India is planning significant power T&D upgrade, are you planning capacity expansion? Please discuss.
Yes, we are expanding our ABC, MVCC and HT capacity at least 50 per cent in the next one year. As a part of an integrated plan, we are even expanding our rod capacity significantly.
Do you cater to the international market? If so, which are your major export destinations?
We have started focusing export markets very recently. We have built a highly experienced sales team with rich experience in dealing with overseas markets. Our primary focus would be markets in Africa, Asia and Americas. We have a couple of export orders that are currently under execution.
Our target it to achieve 25 per cent of our total revenue from the export market, over the next three years.
In view of India’s ambitious power T&D upgrade, how do you see the years ahead for Prem Cables?
We wanted to play a significant role in power sector in India. As we are seeing huge demand for power products over the next 1-2 decades, we would like to capitalize on the growing market demands. We are focusing both organic and inorganic growth. Our focus areas, over the next 3-4 years, would include composite conductors, HT cables and special rods.
