Public Hearing on Draft Amendments to Cross Border Electricity Trade Regulations
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has announced a public hearing to discuss the Draft Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Cross Border Trade of Electricity) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2024 on May 9, 2025, starting at 10:30 AM via online video conferencing. To facilitate proper arrangements for the online hearing, interested participants from organizations are requested to communicate the name(s) of their proposed representative(s) to the undersigned by May 5, 2025.
Power Ministry Seeks Stakeholder Input on Draft Amendments to Long-Term Thermal Power Procurement Bidding Documents
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has released draft amendments to the Model Bidding Documents (MBDs) used for the long-term procurement of electricity by Distribution Licensees from thermal power generating stations established on a Design, Build, Finance, Own, and Operate (DBFOO) basis. The Ministry is inviting comments on these proposed changes from all stakeholders within the next 30 days, with a deadline of May 14, 2025.
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 Ministry Releases Draft Guidelines for Designating Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies
The Ministry of Power has released draft guidelines for designating companies as Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (REIAs). These guidelines aim to streamline the development of renewable energy projects in line with the Ministry’s Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) Guidelines.
CERC (Terms and Conditions of Tariff) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2025
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Terms and Conditions of Tariff) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2025, effective from April 1, 2024. These amendments introduce several changes impacting power generation tariffs, cost calculations, and operational procedures.
Public Consultation Invited on Alternative Mechanism for Fuel and Power Purchase Adjustment Surcharge (FFPAS) Charges
A fixed “Base Fuel and Power Price Adjustment Surcharge” (Base FPPAS) would be collected from consumers along with their monthly electricity bills. The State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) would determine the Base FPPAS as a percentage of the monthly average billing rate. This percentage would be based on the average FPPAS of the past three years and the DISCOM’s proposal for the current year.
Government Pushes for Faster Broadband Expansion with OPGW Fiber Leasing
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged the Ministry of Power (MoP) to facilitate broadband expansion by allowing the leasing of fibers on Optical Ground Wires (OPGW) installed by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PowerGrid). This move aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Deadline Extended for Comments on Power Procurement Guidelines Amendment
The proposed amendment aims to modify the guidelines for procuring power from various renewable energy sources through a tariff-based competitive bidding process. The new deadline for furnishing comments November 24, 2024.
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.
Government Seeks Public Input on Draft Renewable Energy Procurement Amendments
These draft amendments aim to streamline the procurement process for renewable energy projects by providing greater clarity for developers and procurers. The proposed changes in PPA duration and generator availability are expected to improve project viability and attract more investors. Additionally, enhanced weather monitoring and cybersecurity measures can ensure reliable and secure power generation.
