UERC Proposes Resource Adequacy Framework 2026 For Reliable Power Supply In Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand Electricity Regulatory Commission has released a draft notification titled Framework for Resource Adequacy Regulations, 2026, with the aim of ensuring reliable and sufficient electricity supply across Uttarakhand in the coming years. The proposed regulations are designed to help the state maintain a balanced and dependable power system by planning electricity generation resources in advance according to future demand.

The new framework introduces a structured and long-term planning mechanism for power procurement and resource management. According to the draft regulations, the planning process will follow four major stages: demand assessment and forecasting, generation resource planning, procurement planning, and monitoring for compliance. These plans will be prepared on a rolling basis for the next ten years and updated every year to reflect changes in demand patterns, technology, and policy developments.

Under the proposed rules, the state’s Distribution Licensee (DISCOM) will be responsible for forecasting electricity demand for short-term, medium-term, and long-term periods. Short-term forecasts will cover up to one year, medium-term forecasts up to five years, and long-term forecasts up to ten years. The regulations direct the DISCOM to use advanced scientific methods and mathematical models to improve the accuracy of demand forecasting.

The framework also recognizes the growing impact of new energy trends and technologies on electricity demand. Factors such as the increasing use of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and EV charging infrastructure, renewable energy integration, battery energy storage systems, and policy initiatives like the National Hydrogen Mission and 24×7 power supply are expected to play a major role in future electricity consumption. Historical weather data and demographic changes will also be considered while estimating future demand.

Once the demand projections are prepared, the DISCOM will need to identify adequate power generation resources to meet future electricity needs. The regulations introduce the concept of “Capacity Crediting,” which evaluates power sources based on their actual reliability and contribution during peak demand periods. For example, solar power generation will be assessed based on its performance during the highest load hours of the year.

The regulations also propose maintaining a Planning Reserve Margin (PRM), which acts as an additional safety buffer above the projected peak demand. This reserve capacity is intended to help avoid power shortages and blackouts during sudden demand increases or unexpected outages at power plants.

To ensure supply reliability, the framework recommends that 80-85 percent of the required power capacity should come through long-term contracts, while 10-15 percent should be arranged through medium-term agreements. The remaining requirement can be met through short-term procurement. The draft regulations also clarify that electricity purchased from power exchanges will not be considered for meeting resource adequacy requirements.

The DISCOM will also be required to demonstrate that it has secured 100 percent of the required capacity for the first year and at least 90 percent for the second year. Through these measures, the Commission aims to establish a more proactive and data-driven approach to power planning and energy security in Uttarakhand.