From Our Correspondent
Visakhapatnam: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday underscored the urgent need for strong cyber protection in the energy sector, warning that future power systems must be both technologically advanced and secure to deliver reliable, low-cost electricity to the people.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony between the World Economic Forum (WEF) and the Government of Andhra Pradesh for the establishment of a Centre for Energy Cyber Resilience (CECRC), Naidu said the state was committed to transforming energy generation, distribution and security through cutting-edge technologies, including Artificial Intelligence.
“Energy systems must be designed to directly benefit people. As the world shifts to green energy, we are targeting 160 GW of renewable energy in Andhra Pradesh. Reducing production and transmission costs is key to long-term energy stability,” he said.
He added that AI-driven systems could significantly cut distribution losses, lower supply costs and improve sustainability. “We are preparing policies to enable power generation closer to consumption points and reduce transmission losses. Rooftop solar under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana is being fast-tracked across AP,” Naidu said.
‘AP Must Deliver Low-Cost Power to Data Centres’ — Lokesh
IT and Energy Minister Nara Lokesh said AP’s rapid progress under Naidu’s leadership has enabled large-scale investments such as the 6 GW data centre planned for Visakhapatnam.
“Data centres require high volumes of electricity. If power is expensive, operational costs skyrocket. We must produce high-quality power at low cost. That is why the CECRC is vital — it will help protect and stabilise our energy systems,” Lokesh said.
He added that Naidu’s proactive approach ensures swift implementation of critical reforms, urging industries to become part of Andhra Pradesh’s growth journey.
Green Energy Surge and Cybersecurity Priority
Energy Minister G. Ravikumar said AP was attracting massive investments in the renewable energy sector and that energy system security is now as critical as production itself.
WEF Managing Director Jeremy Jurgens said protecting energy systems during the global AI transition was essential. “AP taking early steps in cyber protection is commendable. For economic and social resilience, such centres are indispensable,” he said.
Chief Secretary Vijayanand also attended the event.