The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (HPERC) has introduced new regulations to promote the use of renewable energy within the state. These regulations, called the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (Terms and Conditions for Green Energy Open Access and Banking) Regulations, 2024, are aimed at streamlining the process of accessing green energy and ensuring a smooth transition towards sustainable energy sources.
The regulations cover several key aspects related to the use of green energy. Firstly, they establish the criteria for different types of consumers who are eligible to apply for green energy open access. Consumers with a contracted demand or sanctioned load of 100 kW or more are eligible, whether through a single connection or multiple connections aggregating to 100 kW or more. Additionally, there are no load limitations for captive consumers, making it easier for those generating their green energy to connect to the grid.
To ensure a fair and systematic allocation of green energy, the regulations classify consumers into three categories based on their duration of use: long-term, medium-term, and short-term. Long-term consumers are those looking to access green energy for more than 12 years but not exceeding 25 years. Medium-term consumers are those planning to use green energy for a period ranging from 3 months to 5 years. Short-term consumers are those intending to use green energy for up to one month at a time. This categorization helps manage the distribution and availability of green energy more effectively across different types of consumers.
The process for applying for green energy open access is clearly outlined in the regulations. Consumers must first register on the Green Energy Open Access Registry Portal, managed by the Central Nodal Agency. After registration, consumers can submit their applications online, which are then forwarded to the respective State Nodal Agency for verification and approval. The State Nodal Agency is required to approve applications within fifteen days, provided all technical requirements are met.
A significant aspect of the regulations is the provision for the banking of green energy. Banking allows consumers to store surplus energy generated from renewable sources with the distribution licensee and draw it at a later time. This helps manage variability in energy generation and provides flexibility to consumers. The banking facility is available monthly, and the energy banked must be drawn within the same banking cycle. Any unutilized energy at the end of the cycle is considered lapsed, but the generating station is eligible for Renewable Energy Certificates for the lapsed energy.
The regulations also detail various charges associated with green energy open access, such as transmission charges, wheeling charges, cross-subsidy surcharges, and additional surcharges. These charges are intended to cover the costs incurred by the transmission and distribution licensees in facilitating open access to green energy. Notably, there are provisions to exempt certain consumers from cross-subsidy surcharges, particularly those using renewable energy for the production of green hydrogen and ammonia, and those consuming power from waste-to-energy plants.
Moreover, the regulations emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in the management of green energy open access. The State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) is required to maintain a dedicated webpage and issue monthly reports on the status of green energy open access, including details on long-term, medium-term, and short-term consumers, peak load flows, and average losses in the transmission and distribution systems. This ensures that all stakeholders have access to up-to-date information, promoting fairness and efficiency in the distribution of green energy.
In case of disputes, the regulations provide a clear resolution mechanism. Complaints and disputes related to green energy open access are to be handled by the State Nodal Agency, and in cases where the agency is a party to the dispute, the matter is referred to the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum. Appeals against the orders of the State Nodal Agency can be made to the Commission, ensuring a structured approach to conflict resolution.
Overall, the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission’s new regulations mark a significant step towards fostering the use of renewable energy in the state. By providing clear guidelines, simplifying the application process, and ensuring transparency, these regulations aim to make green energy more accessible and appealing to a wider range of consumers, thereby contributing to the state’s and the nation’s sustainability goals.
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