MSERC Retains INR 2.11/Unit Additional Surcharge For Open-Access Consumers Until March 2027 In Meghalaya

The Meghalaya State Electricity Regulatory Commission (MSERC) has issued Suo Motu Order No. 11 of 2026, continuing the provisional additional surcharge of ₹2.11 per unit for open-access consumers in Meghalaya for the six-month period from October 2026 to March 2027. The order was issued under the leadership of Commission Chairman Shri Chandan Kumar Mondol.

The Commission decided to retain the existing surcharge rate because the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) has not submitted the actual performance data required to calculate a revised additional surcharge for the previous six-month period from April to September 2026. The rate will remain applicable until the necessary information is submitted and examined by the Commission.

Earlier, in its order dated March 26, 2026, concerning the revised aggregate revenue requirement and distribution tariff of MePDCL for the financial year 2026-27, MSERC had provisionally approved an additional surcharge of ₹2.11 per unit for the April-September 2026 period.

Under the applicable regulatory framework, the additional surcharge for open-access consumers is reviewed every six months. The two assessment periods cover April to September and October to March. The surcharge is subject to a subsequent true-up based on actual operational and financial data certified by the State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC).

However, the absence of the required actual data from MePDCL has prevented the Commission from determining whether a revised surcharge should apply for the previous period. To ensure continuity in the regulatory framework and avoid uncertainty for open-access consumers, MSERC initiated a suo motu proceeding.

The Commission exercised its powers under Regulation 12 of the MSERC (Conduct of Business) Regulations, 2006, to take up the matter independently in the public interest. Through the latest order, it has maintained the existing provisional rate rather than introducing a revised figure without the necessary supporting information.

The additional surcharge is relevant to open-access consumers who procure electricity through arrangements that allow them to source power from suppliers other than their local distribution licensee. Such charges form part of the regulatory framework governing electricity procurement and distribution.

MSERC has clarified that the provisional rate will continue until MePDCL submits the required performance data and the Commission completes its detailed examination. Following verification and review of the information, the Commission may make appropriate adjustments to the surcharge.

The order maintains the existing rate for the October 2026-March 2027 period while leaving scope for subsequent revision based on verified data and regulatory scrutiny.