KERC Proposes Unified Electricity Supply Regulations 2026 For Karnataka

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has issued the draft KERC (Electricity Supply) Regulations, 2026, proposing a unified framework to regulate electricity supply across the state. The draft seeks to simplify existing rules, remove inconsistencies and align supply procedures with technical standards prescribed by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA).

The proposed regulations will replace several existing rules, including the KERC Supply Code 2004, regulations covering recovery of expenditure, security deposits and interest, and the Conditions of Supply 2006, along with their amendments.

The draft specifies electricity supply voltage levels according to contracted load. Supply at 230V single phase will generally be available up to 5 kW, while 400V three-phase supply will cover general loads up to 150 kW or 176 kVA. Higher loads will be served through 11 kV, 33 kV and extra-high-voltage systems, with voltage requirements linked to the contracted capacity.

KERC has also proposed stricter timelines for new electricity connections and load-related applications. Distribution licensees will be required to process applications and tracking requests through online portals or mobile applications. Where network extensions are not required, connections must be provided within three working days in metropolitan areas, seven working days in municipal areas and 15 working days in rural areas. Where service line extensions are necessary, the timeline can extend up to 90 days, while construction of a new sub-station could require up to 24 months.

Consumers will also be allowed to execute certain service-line works through licensed electrical contractors. Applicants opting for self-execution will pay a supervision fee of 5%, subject to a maximum of ₹15 lakh, and transfer the completed assets to the distribution licensee free of cost, with a one-year performance guarantee.

The draft includes specific provisions for irrigation pump sets, multiple electricity connections, industrial sub-metering and underground cabling. Irrigation connections will require valid land or water rights documents, while connections will not be permitted within 250 metres of public drinking-water borewells.

KERC has invited suggestions, objections and comments from stakeholders and the public within 30 days of publication of the draft notification in the official gazette.