Government Clarifies Existing Solar Schemes Unaffected by Energy Storage Advisory
The government has clarified that all ongoing schemes of the Government of India, including the recently launched PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, will continue to be governed by their existing provisions. This clarification means that the CEA advisory regarding co-locating Energy Storage systems will not immediately impact the implementation or benefits of existing solar schemes. Beneficiaries can continue to avail the benefits as per the original scheme guidelines.
CERC Approves Procedure for Maintaining Minimum Generation Levels at Section 62 Generators
The procedure applies to all regional entity thermal generating stations with tariffs determined under Section 62 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
Bidding Guidelines for Pumped Storage Plants
The guidelines acknowledge the challenges posed by the variability of renewable energy sources and emphasize the crucial role of energy storage systems (ESS) in ensuring grid stability. Pumped storage plants are recognized as a vital component of India’s ESS strategy, complementing battery energy storage systems (BESS).
Power Purchase Escalation Rates Announced for October 2024- March 25
The Ministry of Power has announced the annual escalation rates applicable for the period from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. These rates will be used to calculate payments for power procured by distribution licensees under various Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These escalation rates will be used to adjust the payments made to power producers based on changes in fuel costs and other relevant factors.
New Guidelines Issued to Enhance Power System Operations
These guidelines aim to ensure that LDCs are staffed with sufficient skilled personnel to handle the increasing complexity of power system operations. They provide a framework for determining the optimal number of staff required, their qualifications, and training needs.
CERC Indian Electricity Grid Code (First Amendment) Regulations, 2024
The regulations set limits on the duration of infirm power injection for different types of generating stations, including renewable energy sources (REGs) and energy storage systems (ESS). They also clarify the timing for the commencement of scheduling for newly commissioned generating stations. Additionally, The regulations provide for compensation to thermal power plants operating below their normative levels.
CERC Issues Directives to Ensure Power Supply During Peak Demand Period
All SLDCs and RLDCs must submit details of their operational planning for October 2024, including resource adequacy assessments. Distribution companies can procure power from surplus or requisitioned capacity in other states during shortages. Generating companies should address technical issues to ensure maximum capacity on-bar.
CERC Proposes Changes to Electricity Trading Contracts
The commission proposes to review the continuation of Contingency Contracts in light of their performance and the introduction of alternative options like Real-Time Markets (RTM). Additionally, CERC also proposes to withdraw Intra-Day Contracts in all the Power Exchanges. Power exchanges will be required to offer pre-specified time slots for TAM contracts, including Base/RTC, Peak, Off-Peak, and Night. Stakeholders can submit their feedback on these drafts by November 4, 2024.
CERC Publishes Timelines For Implementation Of DSM Regulations
The stipulation in DSM Regulations regarding charges for deviation by way of injection of infirm power will now come into effect on November 1, 2024. Until October 31, 2024, CERC’s Order dated February 6, 2023, on charges for deviation for injection of scheduled inform power will remain in operation. All other provisions of the DSM Regulations, 2024, have come into effect on September 16, 2024.
Changes To Cross-Border Electricity Trade Guidelines
Generating companies or distribution licensees can now export electricity generated from coal-based plants or gas-based plants only if the coal or gas used is imported, procured through spot e-auction, or obtained from other sources specified by the government. However, this restriction does not apply to electricity traded through power exchanges.
