DERC Amends Open Access Rules, Phases Out Additional Surcharge Over Four Years In Delhi

The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has notified the Second Amendment to its Open Access Regulations for 2026, bringing important changes for power consumers in Delhi. The update focuses on how additional surcharges are applied to consumers who choose to buy electricity from sources other than their local distribution companies, such as power exchanges or third-party suppliers.

One of the key highlights of the amendment is the gradual removal of the additional surcharge for consumers using Open Access or General Network Access (GNA). As per the new rules, the surcharge will be reduced in a linear manner starting from the year a consumer is granted access. If the consumer continues with Open Access, the surcharge will be fully eliminated within four years. This provides clarity and financial predictability for large commercial and industrial consumers, helping them plan their energy procurement strategies more efficiently.

However, the commission has clearly stated that this benefit will not apply retrospectively. Consumers who have already paid the additional surcharge under earlier regulations will not be eligible for any refund or adjustment. This ensures that past transactions remain unaffected while the new framework applies only going forward.

The amendment also specifies that the additional surcharge will be applicable only to those consumers who are currently, or have previously been, connected to a particular distribution licensee. This condition ensures that the surcharge is linked to the use of existing grid infrastructure and the obligations of distribution companies.

In another important provision, the DERC has introduced relief for consumers who continue to maintain a part of their contract demand with local distribution companies. In such cases, the additional surcharge will not be charged on the portion of demand that remains with the discom. This step encourages consumers to stay partially connected to the local grid while still exploring competitive power sourcing options.

To maintain consistency with national regulations, the DERC has aligned its definitions of General Network Access and Temporary-GNA with those of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission. The amendment was officially issued under the Electricity Act, 2003, and came into immediate effect after being published in the official Gazette in March 2026.