The Power Ministry has received as many as 14 proposals from various states for smart grid projects that are to be implemented with a total outlay of Rs 400 crore.

Smart grid projects, primarily aimed at bringing down power transmission and distribution losses, would be carried out on pilot basis.

Various states have submitted about 14 proposals for smart grid projects and together they would cost Rs 400 crore, a Power Ministry official said.

"The cost for these projects would be shared equally by the Power Ministry and the respective states," he said.

According to the official, the modalities for implementing smart grid projects are being worked out and a final decision on them is expected in the next few months.

Every pilot project is expected to take at least 12-18 months for completion. They would focus on different areas such as integration of renewable energy sources with the grid and ways to reduce Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses.

AT&C losses, projected to be as high as 30 per cent, is a major factor impacting the progress of power transmission sector in the country.

Sam Pitroda, adviser to the Prime Minister on Public Information Infrastructure and Innovation, is chairing the India Smart Grid Task Force. The panel is working on various ideas to promote smart grid technologies.