Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission Approves Green Energy Open Access Procedures

The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) approved the draft Procedure for the Grant of Connectivity & Green Energy Open Access and the draft Procedure for the Grant of Connectivity on Intra-State Transmission or Distribution systems. The approval came in response to a petition filed by the State Load Dispatch Center (SLDC) of Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited (HVPNL).

The SLDC/HVPNL sought approval for the detailed procedures concerning the grant of connectivity and Green Energy Open Access, as outlined in the HERC (Green Energy Open Access) Regulations, 2023. These regulations aim to facilitate the integration of green energy sources into the state’s electricity grid. The proposed procedures were developed following the guidelines set by the Power System Operation Corporation (POSOCO), now known as The Grid Controller of India Ltd., and were influenced by various CERC/HERC regulations.

To ensure inclusivity and gather feedback, the SLDC/HVPNL shared the draft procedures with relevant stakeholders, including HVPNL, UHBVNL, DHBVNL, HPPC, and HAREDA, and solicited their comments and suggestions. After a thorough consultation process and finalization in a meeting, the SLDC/HVPNL submitted the draft procedures for HERC’s approval.

The petitioners, M/s. Cleanmax and M/s. JBM raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposed procedures on their solar power development projects in Haryana. They requested to be included in the proceedings. However, the Commission observed that the procedures were already shaped through consultations with stakeholders and that comments had been invited from other power utilities in Haryana. The Commission, therefore, deemed it unnecessary to hold a public hearing or include additional parties, as it might cause delays in implementing the notified regulations.

After considering the submissions and proposals, the Commission approved the Procedure for the Grant of Connectivity & Green Energy Open Access, along with the Procedure for the Grant of Connectivity on Intra-State Transmission or Distribution Systems. Minor modifications were made to align with the Commission’s considerations. Additionally, the Commission reviewed a presentation by UHBVNL on the detailed banking procedure and model banking agreement, approving them for implementation as per the HERC (Green Energy Open Access Regulations), 2023.

The approved procedures are set to come into force from the date of the Commission’s order, dated 29.11.2023. The order concludes the proceedings related to the petition, and the relevant documentation, including the approved procedures, is provided in the appendices of the order. The Commission’s decision reflects a balanced approach, taking into account the interests of stakeholders and the need for a seamless transition to green energy integration in Haryana’s electricity grid.

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