The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has released the draft “Connectivity and General Network Access to the Intra-State Transmission and State Distribution System Regulations, 2026” to create a more structured and transparent framework for open access and network connectivity across the state. The draft regulations were published in the Karnataka Gazette on June 11, 2026, after being framed on June 4, 2026.
KERC has invited comments, suggestions, and objections from stakeholders and the general public. Interested parties have been given 30 days from the date of publication to submit their feedback to the Commission’s Secretary. The proposed regulations are expected to come into effect from October 1, 2026.
The draft regulations will apply to all intra-state open access and wheeling transactions in Karnataka. They will also cover the intra-state components of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) transactions. The framework introduces General Network Access (GNA) for long-term open access and Temporary General Network Access (T-GNA) for short-term power transactions. It also includes dedicated access arrangements for solar and non-solar power supply requirements.
According to the draft, generating stations, standalone Energy Storage Systems (ESS), captive generating plants, and renewable energy park developers with a capacity of 5 MW or more will be eligible for connectivity at the transmission network level. Entities with capacities below 5 MW will be connected through the distribution network. Open access consumers must have a sanctioned load or contract demand of at least 100 kW, although this condition will not apply to captive consumers.
The application process will be conducted online through digitally signed forms. The State Transmission Utility (STU) will act as the nodal agency for transmission-level connectivity, while distribution licensees will handle applications at the distribution level. Applicants will be required to pay application fees based on the category of access sought. In some cases, fees may go up to ₹3 lakh for non-renewable projects at the transmission level. Connectivity bank guarantees will also be required to support infrastructure development and system upgrades.
For short-term power transactions, T-GNA will allow access for periods ranging from a single 15-minute time block to up to 11 months. These transactions will be managed through the State Open Access Registry (SOAR), an electronic platform operated by the State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC).
The draft regulations also outline charges related to transmission, wheeling, cross-subsidy surcharges, and standby arrangements. Renewable energy banking will be permitted on a monthly basis until March 31, 2030, with an 8 percent banking charge. The regulations further include provisions for payment discipline, penalties for delayed payments, and possible disconnection or termination of access in cases of continued default.
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