BERC Approves SLDC Tariff Order, Sets ARR At ₹33.27 Crore For FY 2026-27 In Bihar

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) has issued a new tariff order for the State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC), setting out its financial and operational plans for the coming years. The order, dated March 18, 2026, includes the final truing-up for FY 2024-25, the Annual Performance Review for FY 2025-26, and the approval of the Aggregate Revenue Requirement (ARR) for FY 2026-27.

For FY 2024-25, the SLDC had initially submitted an ARR of ₹20.55 crore. After a detailed review, the Commission approved a slightly lower amount of ₹20.32 crore. During this process, the Commission also identified a revenue surplus of ₹2.84 crore. This surplus was mainly due to the actual charges collected by the SLDC being higher than expected during the year.

For FY 2025-26, under the Annual Performance Review, the SLDC proposed a revised ARR of ₹33.34 crore. However, after examining the details, the Commission approved ₹33.06 crore. Similarly, for FY 2026-27, the SLDC projected an ARR of ₹34.59 crore, including adjustments for earlier surpluses and gaps. The Commission reduced this figure and approved ₹33.27 crore. This approved amount takes into account the surplus from the previous year along with its carrying cost.

Operational costs were an important part of the review. For FY 2024-25, the Commission approved Operation and Maintenance expenses, including ₹6.83 crore for employee costs and ₹4.00 crore for repairs and maintenance. One issue raised by stakeholders was the higher depreciation rate. The SLDC explained that most of its assets are IT systems and electronic equipment, which become outdated quickly. The Commission accepted this explanation and allowed a 15% depreciation rate for such assets, as per existing rules.

The Commission also gave important directions to improve the functioning of the SLDC. It asked for the preparation of a proper asset register and stressed the need for “ring-fencing” the SLDC. This means the SLDC should operate independently with clear financial separation. At present, the SLDC is operated by Bihar State Power Transmission Company Limited (BSPTCL).

The new charges approved in the order will come into effect from April 1, 2026. The Commission has directed the SLDC to recover its operating charges through monthly billing to transmission system users. This step is expected to ensure a stable flow of revenue and support the reliable and efficient operation of the power grid in the state.