The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has officially released the Karnataka Electricity Distribution Code (KEDC), 2025, replacing the earlier KEDC, 2015. The revised Code aims to modernize Karnataka’s electricity distribution framework, enhance safety and reliability, and align state-level regulations with updated national standards issued by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).
🎯 Purpose and Need for Update
The new Distribution Code is introduced under the authority of:
Section 42(1) and Section 181(2)(zp) of the Electricity Act, 2003
Key Reasons for the Update:
Alignment with CERC’s Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC), 2023
This national code replaces IEGC, 2010, and introduces:
- Resource adequacy planning
- Demand forecasting
- Automatic load management (e.g., rotational load shedding, demand response schemes)
Integration of CEA Regulations & Best Practices, including:
- Metering standards (2006)
- Connectivity standards (2007, 2013)
- Grid and communication standards
- Cybersecurity (2021)
- Safety regulations (2023)
- Distribution network planning (2023)
- Transformer maintenance guidelines (2023)
Public Consultation:
The draft KEDC, 2024 was released for stakeholder feedback. A Public Hearing was held on 08 April 2025, and the final Code was notified after incorporating public comments.
📘 What the KEDC, 2025 Covers
The KEDC, 2025 is a detailed technical and operational framework divided into five chapters, aiming to ensure that electricity distribution in Karnataka is safe, efficient, economical, and reliable.
📕 Chapter 1: Definitions
Clarifies terms and concepts used across the code for consistency and clarity.
📗 Chapter 2: Introduction & Objectives
2.1 – General Coverage
The Distribution Code has 3 major components:
Distribution Planning Code
- System construction and design standards
- Resource adequacy planning
- Quality Assurance Plan (QAP)
Distribution Operation & Maintenance Code
- Operational norms under normal/emergency conditions
- Distribution Control Centres (DCCs)
- Load shedding, demand estimation, maintenance procedures
Safety Standards for Distribution Systems
- Emphasis on protection of people, animals, and property
- Mandatory compliance with CEA safety regulations
2.2 – Applicability
The Code applies to:
- All Distribution Licensees (including deemed licensees)
- Open Access Consumers
- Transmission Licensees
- Institutions covered under Section 13 and Section 14 (proviso 8) of the Electricity Act
2.3 – Implementation
- Primary Responsibility: Distribution Licensees
- Emergency Handling: Licensees may act swiftly in unforeseen conditions with later ratification by the Distribution Code Review Panel (DCRP)
- Confidentiality Clause: Information disclosed as per Code shall not be shared without consent, except to authorized government bodies.
📘 Chapter 3: Distribution Planning Code
Outlines how distribution systems should be designed and expanded:
- System Construction & Security Planning
- Planning Procedures & Standards
- Energy Audits
- Voltage and Harmonics Control
- Reliability Analysis
- Standardized Transformer and Substation Designs
- Service Mains & Metering Arrangements
- Reactive Power Compensation
- Safety Protocols in Design and Construction
📙 Chapter 4: Distribution Operation & Maintenance Code
Defines operational procedures under various scenarios (normal, emergency, etc.):
- Establishment of Distribution Control Centres (DCC)
- Outage and Contingency Planning
- Apparatus Failure Response
- Load Shedding and Demand Management
- Protection and Metering Systems
- Real-time Communication
- Voltage, Power Factor Monitoring
- Maintenance Testing & Training
- Tools, Spares, and Operational Criteria
- Inspection and Reporting Mechanisms
📒 Chapter 5: Miscellaneous Provisions
- Power to Relax: KERC may relax provisions in specific cases
- Power to Remove Difficulty: KERC can take measures to resolve implementation challenges
- Repeal of Previous Code: KEDC, 2015 stands repealed from the date of commencement of KEDC, 2025
- Issue of Suo-Motu Orders: KERC may issue practice directions as needed
✅ Key Highlights
| Feature | Description |
| Effective Date | From JULY 21, 2025. |
| Scope | Applies to entire State of Karnataka |
| Compliance Required By | All Distribution Licensees, Open Access Users, Consumers, and Transmission Licensees |
| Focus Areas | Grid reliability, planning adequacy, safety, operational efficiency, and consumer protection |
| Aligned With | CEA and CERC regulations (2023 updates) |
| Stakeholder Involvement | Public comments invited and hearing held before finalization |
📣 Conclusion
The KEDC, 2025 represents a significant regulatory overhaul in Karnataka’s power distribution landscape. By aligning state practices with central mandates, KERC is ensuring a future-ready, secure, and reliable electricity distribution system that can support the growing demands of Karnataka’s industries, households, and emerging renewable energy integrations.