The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (HPERC) has notified the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Grid Code Regulations, 2026, replacing the existing Grid Code that had been in force since 2008. The new regulations have been introduced to strengthen the planning, operation, management, protection, and security of the state’s electricity grid while supporting the growing integration of renewable energy resources.
The regulations apply to all entities connected to or using the Intra-State Transmission System (InSTS). These include the State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC), State Transmission Utility (STU), transmission licensees, generating companies, distribution licensees, bulk consumers, and renewable energy developers. While the new code governs intra-state transmission activities within Himachal Pradesh, matters related to inter-state transmission will continue to be regulated under the Indian Electricity Grid Code, 2023, issued by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission.
A key aspect of the new regulations is the establishment of a structured governance framework for grid management. The State Transmission Utility has been entrusted with the responsibility of implementing and enforcing the provisions of the Grid Code. In addition, a Grid Code Review Committee will be formed to periodically review the regulations, recommend amendments, and address operational issues raised by stakeholders. The committee will also ensure that the state regulations remain aligned with national standards and evolving grid requirements.
The regulations place considerable emphasis on long-term resource planning and transmission development. Distribution licensees will be required to forecast future electricity demand and provide planning-related information to the STU. Based on this data, the STU will prepare a ten-year transmission development plan and update it annually. The planning process will also consider renewable energy integration, energy storage systems, demand response measures, and future infrastructure requirements to ensure a reliable power supply.
The new Grid Code introduces detailed technical requirements for entities seeking connectivity to the state grid. Generating stations, transmission systems, and other users must comply with various Central Electricity Authority regulations related to connectivity, communication systems, grid standards, and safety before being connected to the network. The regulations also make communication and telemetry systems mandatory to facilitate real-time monitoring and coordination with the SLDC.
Grid protection and system security have been given significant importance under the regulations. Generating units and transmission systems must install adequate protection mechanisms to prevent faults from affecting the wider network. Specific fault-clearing timelines have been prescribed for different voltage levels. Protection Coordination Committees will regularly review protection arrangements and ensure compliance with safety standards.
The regulations further provide detailed procedures for commissioning and commercial operation of generating stations and transmission systems. These include provisions related to startup power, infirm power injection, testing, trial operations, and declaration of Commercial Operation Date (COD). Separate technical requirements have been outlined for hydro, solar, wind, hybrid, and energy storage projects to support their safe and reliable integration into the grid.
The operating provisions also require all grid-connected entities to coordinate closely with the SLDC to maintain system stability, voltage, and frequency within prescribed limits. By encouraging the use of modern technologies, renewable energy integration, frequency control measures, and emergency restoration procedures, the 2026 Grid Code aims to modernize Himachal Pradesh’s power system and ensure a secure, efficient, and reliable electricity network for the future.
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