Power watchdog seeks states' open access plans

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has asked all state Electricity Regulatory Commissions to finalise a time frame for open access in distribution by December-end.

Open access in distribution would allow a consumer to choose his electricity supplier. He would be able to decide if he wants power from an agency other than the distribution licensee of his area of supply.

"The state Electricity Regulatory Commissions will have to provide a roadmap for introduction of open access in distribution in each state. They have to inform the CERC whether all units will be allowed open access in one go, or whether the introduction will be in a phased manner," said Ashok Basu, chairman, CERC.

As per the law, all plants with a load of over 1 mega watt are to be allowed to freely provide power to consumers.

Currently, only 11 states have come out with a final or draft regulation for the purpose. These include Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan, Uttaranchal and West Bengal. The law provides for open access in distribution within a five-year time period.

The law says open access in distribution is to be provided in a time-bound manner by state Electricity Regulatory Commissions after taking into consideration state-specific conditions.

Even before the elimination of cross-subsidies, open access can be allowed on payment of a surcharge.