UERC Revises Electricity Connection Rules, Introduces Standardized Charges for Loads up to 150 kW In Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand Electricity Regulatory Commission (UERC) has issued an order revising electricity supply regulations in the state to align them with the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020. The revised framework will come into effect on November 1, 2026, and aims to simplify the process of obtaining new electricity connections, reduce procedural delays and improve transparency for consumers.

A key feature of the revised regulations is the introduction of predefined connection charges for electricity loads of up to 150 kW. Under the new system, charges will be standardized according to consumer categories and average costs, reducing the need for individual site inspections and case-specific demand estimates for determining connection expenses. Applicants will be able to pay the applicable charges directly when submitting their applications, making the process more straightforward and predictable.

The changes are expected to reduce the time and administrative effort involved in securing new electricity connections. By establishing charges in advance, the commission intends to provide consumers with greater clarity about the initial costs of obtaining a connection. The standardized approach is also expected to reduce uncertainty arising from customized cost assessments and simplify procedures for the distribution utility.

The order also expands the eligibility limit for low tension (LT) side metering from 75 kW to 150 kW. This change will allow consumers with higher connected loads to access LT-side metering, potentially reducing the need for additional arrangements associated with higher-load connections. The revision forms part of the broader effort to streamline electricity supply procedures and make connection services more accessible.

However, additional charges will apply where a consumer’s premises is located more than 300 metres from the existing distribution main of the utility. In such cases, applicants will be required to pay line extension costs calculated using transparent per-metre rates. This provision establishes a clearer basis for determining the additional expenditure involved in extending distribution infrastructure to distant locations.

The commission has also introduced provisions to address the availability of distribution transformers. Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL), the state’s distribution licensee, will be responsible for ensuring the availability of the transformer capacity required for providing connections. If the required transformer rating is unavailable in stock, UPCL must install a higher-rated transformer temporarily without charging the consumer any additional amount.

Another important provision concerns electricity connections activated through prepaid meters. Such connections will be exempt from initial security deposits, reducing the upfront financial burden on eligible applicants. The measure is intended to make the connection process more convenient while encouraging the use of prepaid metering arrangements.

The revised regulations reflect UERC’s focus on improving consumer services through simplified procedures, standardized charges and clearer responsibilities for the distribution licensee. By reducing the need for individualized assessments and addressing infrastructure-related delays, the framework seeks to make new electricity connections more predictable and accessible across Uttarakhand.

With implementation scheduled for November 1, 2026, consumers and distribution utilities will need to follow the revised requirements. The effectiveness of the changes will depend on their implementation, including transparent cost calculations, transformer availability and timely processing of applications.