Regulator finds faults in Tata Power tariff petition

Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC ), has picked up flaws in the average revenue requirement and tariff determination petition filed by Tata Power Company (TPC).

The company can hike tariff, it chooses to do so, only after the commission approves its petition. The regulator said much of the information furnished by TPC has been either unduly delayed or is cursory and inadequate.

The commission has, in this regard, pointed out the note on capex and fuel optimisation. "TPC is yet to furnish copies of the Central Electricity Authority ministry of power clearances for all units as indicated in the technical validation session, nor have you provided break-up of GFA, depreciation, NFA and fixed cost as between transmission and distribution activities," MERC said in a letter to TPC.

The commission has also invited TPC's attention to a letter number 0286, dated February 12, 2004 and said the company is yet to comply with it. "TPC would be fully aware of the penal provisions under Sections 142, 146 and other sections of the Electricity Act in such circumstances of non-compliance to the commission's directives. I am therefore, directed to seek your immediate compliance on the affidavit on or before March 12," A M Khan, commissioner secretary of the commission, told TPC.