The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has recently made significant decisions regarding the metering of LT (Low Tension) connections under the Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) Regulations, 2022. These decisions come in response to evolving needs and challenges faced by consumers, particularly telecom operators, seeking to utilize green energy sources.
In line with the Electricity Act, 2003 and subsequent regulations, the KERC introduced the GEOA Regulations in January 2023 to promote the use of renewable energy sources. These regulations allow consumers with a contracted demand or sanctioned load of 100 kW or more to source power through green energy open access. However, telecom operators raised concerns regarding the suitability of existing metering regulations for their operations, particularly concerning LT connections.
Regulation 15 of the KERC GEOA Regulations mandates metering following the provisions of the CEA (Central Electricity Authority) Metering Regulations, 2006. These regulations require meters capable of time-differentiated measurements and time-of-day (ToD) facilities. However, telecom operators highlighted the absence of smart meters with ABT (Availability Based Tariff) facilities for LT connections, which are essential for accurately measuring and billing power consumption.
To address these concerns, the KERC conducted a meeting with metering manufacturers, distribution licensees, and telecom operators in January 2024. It was revealed that the CEA had not yet established metering standards for smart meters with ABT facilities for LT connections, although meters with ToD capabilities were available.
In response to the situation, the KERC invoked its regulatory powers under Regulation 23 of the GEOA Regulations to introduce temporary measures. Until the CEA establishes appropriate metering standards, distribution licensees are instructed to specify technical standards for smart meters for LT connections, adhering to relevant IS (Indian Standard) norms. This decision allows consumers to install smart meters with ToD and communication capabilities for LT connections under the GEOA, alleviating the immediate need for 15-minute data intervals.
Additionally, the Commission directed distribution licensees to draft a standardized format for the submission of LT consumer meter data for open access purposes. This measure aims to streamline data collection processes and facilitate efficient communication between consumers and distribution companies.
As a result of these decisions, the requirement for 15-minute data intervals in LT consumer meters under the GEOA Regulation 15(2) is temporarily waived. However, meters must still possess ToD functionalities to ensure accurate billing and monitoring of energy consumption. This flexibility allows for the continued adoption of green energy sources while addressing technical and operational challenges faced by consumers and stakeholders in the energy sector. Overall, the KERC’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to facilitating the transition towards sustainable energy practices and addressing the evolving needs of consumers and stakeholders in the electricity market. These regulatory interventions aim to promote efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in the utilization of renewable energy resources across Karnataka.
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