CERC Forms Committee To Evaluate SCOD Extensions For Renewable And Storage Projects

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) issued an office order on July 30, 2025, to constitute a committee for recommending extensions in the Scheduled Commercial Operation Date (SCOD) of certain renewable energy and energy storage projects. This is in reference to Regulation 13(2)(h) of the amended CERC (Sharing of Inter-State Transmission Charges and Losses) Regulations, 2020, which were published on July 4, 2025.

According to the revised regulation, renewable energy generating stations (REGS) based on wind, solar, or hybrid sources, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (ESS), which are eligible for inter-state transmission charge waivers and have their SCOD on or before June 30, 2025, can seek an extension if they fail to meet the timeline due to Force Majeure events or reasons beyond their control. If the project achieves COD within the extended time, it will still qualify for the waiver as if it had been commissioned by June 30, 2025.

Such extensions can be granted up to a maximum of two times, each not exceeding six months. In cases where there is no Power Purchase Agreement under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, the CERC will decide on the extension based on the recommendation of a designated committee.

The committee includes Sh. Indu Shekhar Jha (Ex-Member, CERC) as Chairman, Ms. Anjuli Chandra (Ex-Member, PSERC), Sh. A.K. Rajput (Ex-Member, CEA), and the COO of CTUIL, as the Convenor. They may also co-opt other experts if needed, and secretarial support will be provided by CTUIL.

The extension process involves three steps. First, the REGS or ESS must apply to the Committee with all relevant documents and send a copy to the buyer, if applicable. The application should be sent to CTUIL at its Gurugram office. Second, the Committee will analyze and conduct prudence checks before submitting its recommendation to the Commission within three months. Third, the Commission will issue an order accepting or rejecting the extension.

The Committee’s term is 18 months from the date of the order or until a further order is issued, whichever is earlier. Retired members of the committee will receive per-sitting remuneration following Regulation 60A of the Conduct of Business Regulations.