FOUNDED IN 1974 by engineer A Shanmuga Velayuthan at the Thiru-Vi-Ka Industrial Estate in Guindy, the company started with cast-iron jointing kits for automobile engines. Its transition into the power sector in the 1980s marked a turning point that has shaped its future. During the early 1980s, as the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) scaled up its power infrastructure, I.P.L strategically realigned its focus. In 1982, it secured its first major order – manufacturing open-type pillar boxes. This was soon followed by the production of 11 kV isolators in 1986 and 230 kV isolators by 1992, establishing
I.P.L’s presence in the high-voltage electrical equipment sector.
VENTURING INTO TRANSFORMERS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
By the mid-1990s, I.P.L expanded into transformer manufacturing, beginning with 500 KVA distribution transformers. The 2000s saw continued progress, and by 2006, the company was producing power transformers up to 25 MVA. This move enabled I.P.L to support India’s growing energy demands, including emerging renewable energy needs by supplying components to the wind energy industry. Recognition came in 2011 when the company was listed among the top five transformer manufacturers in Tamil Nadu in its category.
A defining moment occurred in 2014 when I.P.L entered a joint venture with Jean Müller, a German electrical engineering company known for its fuse switch disconnector technologies. This collaboration enhanced product innovation and reliability, incorporating German expertise into I.P.L’s manufacturing process.
NEW FACILITIES FUEL GROWTH AND INNOVATION
To support its growing product range, I.P.L opened a new manufacturing facility in 2022 at Kakkalur, Tiruvallur district. This plant specialises in high-voltage isolators (up to 800 kV) and high-rupturing capacity (HRC) feeder pillar boxes. Meanwhile, the original Guindy unit was relocated to Thirumudivakkam, which now serves as the company’s primary production hub. The facility manufactures a wide range of advanced transformers, including dry-type, furnace, inverter-duty (for solar), and lighting transformers, as well as power transformers up to 50 MVA. Emphasising sustainability, the Kakkalur plant features a 40 kW rooftop solar installation.
The company’s current CEO, Harirajan, leads business strategy, production and customer engagement, supported by Managing Partner Seetha Lakshmi. Founder A Shanmuga Velayuthan remains a guiding force, bringing decades of experience of having worked alongside national leaders such as the late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on technology and MSME policy initiatives. According to Harirajan, I.P.L’s strength lies in its adaptability. “Our ability to understand client needs and swiftly manufacture custom-built high-tech products has made us dependable,” he stated.
STRONG FINANCIALS AND STABLE WORKFORCE
I.P.L’s operational performance in FY25 was robust: the company delivered 506 pillar boxes, 17,799 isolators, and 684 transformers. It achieved a turnover of Rs 150 crore with a healthy 20 per cent year-on-year growth. I.P.L employs around 100 people, many of whom have remained with the company for years, contributing to its stability and deep institutional knowledge.
R&D: DRIVING INNOVATION AND FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES
Over 85 per cent of I.P.L’s production is in-house. The use of robotic welding has significantly improved productivity. The company holds multiple quality certifications—ISO 9001:2015, BIS, TUV, and IEC—and operates a NABL-accredited testing lab. Central to this growth has been the internal research and development centre. The main aspect of the centre is that it does not have any rigid budget constraints, allowing flexibility and creativity in innovation. The R&D team is currently developing a 400 kV centre-break isolator and is working closely with the Power Grid Corporation of India on several advanced products.
The company is also exploring cutting-edge areas like smart grid systems and battery storage technologies. While I.P.L currently does not export directly, its products reach global markets through private clients. Plans are underway to begin direct exports, especially targeting renewable energy and mining projects overseas.
EXPANDING CLIENTELE…
Over the decades, I.P.L’s client portfolio has evolved significantly. While it once relied heavily on government orders (80 per cent public to 20 per cent private), the ratio has now flipped, with 80 per cent of revenue coming from private sector clients. Still major PSUs like TANGEDCO, TANTRANSCO, NLC India, CPWD, and Chennai Metro Rail, along with over a dozen state electricity boards are its customers. On the private front, clients include L&T, Siemens Gamesa, Blue Star, Bajaj Electricals, and Zauba Corp. The company’s transformers have powered more than 3,500 MW (3.5 GW) of solar energy installations in India. It is also preparing for upcoming orders in offshore wind and grid-modernisation projects.
Despite challenges such as fluctuating metal prices and supply chain disruptions, I.P.L continues to thrive, powered by a loyal workforce, strong R&D capabilities, and a forward-looking product portfolio. Positioned at the intersection of power infrastructure and clean energy, the company is set to play a vital role in India’s energy transformation journey.
