In a significant move towards fostering the integration of renewable energy sources into the power sector, the Arunachal Pradesh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (APSERC) has introduced the draft “Terms and Conditions for Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) and Methodology for Calculation of Charges Regulations, 2023.” The regulations are poised to come into force upon their official publication in the Gazette of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a pivotal step in facilitating open access to electricity generated from renewable sources within the state.
These regulations hold applicability for enabling open access to electricity from Renewable Energy Sources (RES) through the Intra-State Transmission System (InSTS) and distribution systems of licensees in the state. This includes systems incidental to the interstate transmission of electricity. To maintain coherence, the definitions of terms not explicitly provided in these regulations are derived from existing legal frameworks such as the Electricity Act, Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC), State Grid Code, or any other commission regulations.
The regulations outline a comprehensive framework for both long-term and short-term open access. Long-term access, spanning over five years or more, aligns with transmission planning criteria and distribution planning codes stipulated in the State Grid Code. Conversely, short-term access, covering one year or less, is subject to accommodation feasibility and operational margins. The latter includes inherent design margins, variations in power flows, and spare transmission or distribution system capacities designed for future load growth.
Consumers seeking open access are categorized based on the duration of their use of the intra-state transmission and/or distribution system. Long-term and short-term consumers are defined by their access duration, with provisions for short-term consumers to reapply based on priority.
Captive generating plant owners are granted open access rights as per Section 9 of the Electricity Act. Additionally, consumers with a contracted demand or sanctioned load of 100 kW and above are eligible for open access to Renewable Energy under these regulations.
The Arunachal Pradesh State Load Despatch Centre assumes the role of the State Nodal Agency (SNA) for managing long-term, medium-term, and short-term green energy open access. This agency collaborates with transmission and distribution licensees to disseminate relevant information through a centralized portal.
Existing consumers and generators can continue availing of open access under existing agreements or government policies until their specified period’s completion. Renewal is subject to adherence to these regulations, with charges determined by the commission.
Preference is accorded to Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) consumers over regular open access consumers. Within GEOA, priority is given to long-term consumers, followed by medium-term and short-term consumers on a first-come-first-served basis.
The application process for GEOA involves submission to the Central Nodal Agency, with verification conducted by the State Nodal Agency. Processing fees, bank guarantees, and adherence to timelines are specified to ensure the smooth implementation of these regulations.
The regulations also detail provisions for surrendering or transferring open access rights, curtailment priorities based on system constraints, and the issuance of green certificates by distribution licensees to consumers exceeding renewable purchase obligations.
In conclusion, these regulations signify Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to promoting green energy open access, setting a framework that balances the interests of consumers, generators, and the overarching goals of sustainable energy development. The regulations aim to ensure a seamless transition towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape within the state.
Please view the document below for more details.
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