Sanil C. Namboodiripad is managing director of ONGC Tripura Power Company (OTPC) and North East Transmission Company Limited (NETC). With over three decades of experience in the energy sector, he specialises in the operations and maintenance (O&M) of gas-based combined cycle and coal-fired power plants and extra high voltage (EHV) transmission systems.
Namboodiripad previously worked at Adani Transmission, managing 25 EHV substations and over 11,000 ckt km of EHV lines, including HVDC systems. In the past, he has worked with NTPC Limited, focusing on large gas turbine power plants at Kawas and Dabhol. Notably, he was part of the core team that successfully restarted the 2,400 MW Dabhol power station. He has also worked with Reliance Power, developing O&M strategies, systems and diagnostic frameworks for new power stations. Later, as head of asset management at Sterlite Power, he managed the commissioning and operations of over 10,000 km of high voltage transmission lines and 10 substations across India.
His leadership style is characterised by clear communication, teamwork and a focus on delivering results. He prioritises strategic planning to ensure smooth operations, reliability and sustainability.
In his assessment of the transmission sector in northeast India, Namboodiripad identifies significant growth potential. He highlights the region’s abundant renewable resources, particularly hydroelectric power, as key to India’s energy security and climate goals. Government initiatives such as the North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project are already under way to enhance infrastructure, and future projects are planned under the Transmission Plan of the Central Electricity Authority up to 2031-32.
Namboodiripad also points to the potential for cross-border transmission lines, such as the proposed line from Manipur to Myanmar, which could facilitate trade with neighbouring countries.
Despite challenges posed by northeast India’s difficult terrain, high precipitation, seismic activity and environmental concerns, Namboodiripad remains optimistic about the sector’s future. Retention of skilled manpower remains a critical challenge, which he addresses through continuous training programmes.
Namboodiripad has a BTech in electrical and electronics engineering and an MBA in Finance. He is a fellow of the Institution of Engineers (India), a chartered engineer and a member of the International Society of Engineering Asset Management, Brisbane.