Empowering Consumers and Energizing Change with Transformative Amendments in Electricity Regulations

The Ministry of Power has recently unveiled the draft Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Second Amendment Rules 2023, signifying a pivotal move towards transforming the regulatory landscape concerning the rights of electricity consumers.

Once the proposed amendments are implemented the DISCOMs are directed to streamline and expedite the application process for various consumer-centric initiatives. Specifically, the amendments focus on accelerating the procedures related to rooftop solar installations, metering setup, and the duration of feasibility studies. By doing so, the government seeks to promote and facilitate the adoption of rooftop solar energy solutions among consumers, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

To ensure a comprehensive and inclusive decision-making process, the Ministry of Power has opened the floor for public input. Stakeholders, including consumers, industry experts, and advocacy groups, are encouraged to share their insights and opinions on the proposed amendments. This collaborative approach aims to gather diverse perspectives and refine the rules to better meet the needs and expectations of all parties involved.

To facilitate this engagement, the ministry has established a 30-day window, concluding on January 12, 2024, during which stakeholders can submit their comments and feedback. This period allows for a thorough and thoughtful review of the draft rules, ensuring that the final regulations reflect a balanced and well-informed approach to addressing the evolving landscape of electricity rights for consumers.

This collaborative effort serves as a model for inclusive governance and sets the stage for a more consumer-centric and sustainable energy future.

New Connection Or Modification of Existing Connection

• A significant modification is observed in Rule 4 of the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules 2020, precisely within sub-rule (11). This amendment grants authority to the regulatory commission to define a maximum timeframe. This period should not surpass three days in metropolitan cities, seven days in other municipal areas, and 15 days in rural regions. Within this stipulated time, distribution licensees are mandated to furnish new connections or make modifications to existing ones upon receipt of a comprehensive application.

• If the extension of distribution mains or the commissioning of new substations is necessary to facilitate the provision of electricity, DISCOMs are obligated to promptly deliver electricity upon the completion of such projects or within a timeframe stipulated by the commission.

• The amendment places additional emphasis on ensuring the provision of individual electricity connections for owners or occupants within Group Housing Societies, residential colonies, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), or analogous registered bodies.

• The regulations specify terms for delivering electricity through a single-point connection for Group Housing Societies, residential colonies, RWAs, or comparable registered entities. The charges for electricity from individual users in these setups must not surpass the retail tariff set by the regulatory commission for that particular consumer category.

EV Charging System Connections

One noteworthy addition in the revised regulations caters to the escalating demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. These amendments stipulate that the distribution licensee is obligated to furnish a distinct connection for the provision of electricity to EV charging systems, as and when requested by individual consumers or registered entities.

This pivotal modification reflects a proactive response to the surging popularity of electric vehicles and the imperative to build a robust charging infrastructure. It underscores a commitment to facilitating the integration of EVs into the mainstream by ensuring that consumers and organizations can easily access the necessary electric supply infrastructure for their charging needs.

Meter Testing

• The regulations establish a specific timeframe for meter testing, mandating Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) to carry out these tests within a period outlined by the commission. This duration should be at most 30 days from the time DISCOMs receive complaints from consumers regarding meter readings.

• If consumers notice differences between the meter readings and their actual electricity usage and report it, distribution companies (DISCOMs) are required to install an extra meter within three days of receiving the complaint. This additional meter is put in place to validate the consumption for a duration determined by the commission, which should not be less than three months.

• These proposed changes aim to introduce transparency, efficiency, and consumer-friendly practices to the electricity distribution sector in India. During the comment period, stakeholders and the public are invited to share their valuable input. This participation will significantly influence the formulation of rules that are set to have a crucial impact on the future of India's electricity distribution landscape.

Consumers As Power Generators

• Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) are required to conduct a technical feasibility study for rooftop solar projects within a designated period, which should not extend beyond 15 days. The findings of the study must be promptly communicated to the applicant. It's important to note that the installation of rooftop solar systems up to a capacity of 10 kW is exempt from the mandatory technical feasibility study.

• If the technical feasibility studies suggest the necessity to improve distribution infrastructure, such as distribution transformers, for rooftop solar installations within the specified capacity limits, distribution companies (DISCOMs) are required to enhance the infrastructure, and the associated cost should be incorporated into their revenue requirements. In cases where the results of the technical feasibility study are not conveyed to the applicant within the stipulated timeframe, it should be assumed that the proposal is considered technically feasible.

• Once a solar system has been installed, the consumer is required to submit the installation certificate to the Distribution Company (DISCOM). Following this, DISCOM is obligated to complete the connection agreement, install the meter, and ensure the successful commissioning of the solar system within fifteen days from the receipt of the installation certificate.

Kindly take a moment to review the document provided for a more in-depth understanding of the amendments outlined therein.

Document Link 

By actively seeking input from stakeholders, the Ministry of Power underscores its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in the development of regulations that directly impact consumers. This collaborative effort serves as a model for inclusive governance and sets the stage for a more consumer-centric and sustainable energy future.