RERC Proposes Consumer-Friendly Amendments To Electricity Supply Code 2025 In Rajasthan

The Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) has proposed amendments to its existing electricity supply regulations to address challenges faced by distribution companies (Discoms) and make the framework more consumer-friendly. The draft, titled “RERC (Electricity Supply Code and Connected Matters) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2025,” seeks to update the 2021 Supply Code Regulations following petitions from Discoms requesting adjustments to certain provisions that have been difficult to implement.

The commission has invited public comments and suggestions on the draft before finalization. Interested individuals can submit their comments in six sets or copies in writing to the Receiving Officer of RERC. The deadline for submission is October 6, 2025. The draft regulations, along with an explanatory memorandum, are available for Rs. 100 from the Receiving Officer or can be downloaded from the RERC website.

One of the major changes proposed relates to Regulation 11.8, which covers the restoration of electricity supply. Under the amendment, high-tension (HT) and extra-high-tension (EHT) consumers may have their supply restored within two years from the date of disconnection, while other consumers have a five-year window. Agriculture consumers will follow the timelines specified in the State Agriculture Policy. After these periods, connections will be considered permanently disconnected. Consumers in such cases will need to apply for a fresh connection if electricity is required at the same premises. Additionally, applicants for reconnection will be treated as new consumers and will be responsible for the cost of the electricity line and plant if the line material was removed after one year for HT/EHT consumers and two years for other consumers.

The draft also addresses the recovery of outstanding dues under Regulation 11.7(d). It allows Discoms to recover pending dues from a permanently disconnected connection from any other existing or new connection in the same name. However, this can only be done after serving a thirty-day notice, providing an opportunity for a personal hearing, and issuing a speaking order. No recovery or disconnection can occur without the issuance of this order, ensuring that the process remains transparent and fair for consumers.

To further simplify processes, the draft introduces changes to service connection charges for loads up to 150 kW. A new Schedule 2A outlines specific charges for domestic, non-domestic, public street lighting, and industrial consumers. These charges vary based on the load and whether the electricity line is overhead or underground. The amendments also reflect Discoms’ requests that connections for premises beyond 300 meters for domestic or non-domestic loads and 200 meters for industrial or mixed loads should be released under existing provisions. This change is intended to ease difficulties in implementing current regulations.

Overall, the proposed amendments aim to strike a balance between consumer interests and operational efficiency for Discoms. By setting clear timelines for reconnection, providing structured recovery processes for dues, and simplifying service charges, RERC seeks to make the electricity supply framework more transparent, consistent, and easier to manage for all stakeholders. Public participation in the consultation process will play an important role in finalizing these regulations.