On November 26, 2024, the Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission (JSERC) introduced the JSERC (Conduct of Business) Regulations, 2024. These new regulations supersede the earlier 2016 Conduct of Business Regulations and come into effect immediately upon publication in the Jharkhand Official Gazette.
The regulations are formally called the Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Conduct of Business) Regulations, 2024.
Office Details and Working Hours
- The headquarters of the Commission is based at the 1st Floor, Jharkhand State Housing Board, Harmu Housing Colony, Ranchi.
- The Commission’s offices will be open Monday to Friday, from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, excluding government holidays.
- Emergency sittings may be scheduled as needed, and if the last day for performing an act falls on a closed day, it can be done on the next available working day.
Language in Proceedings
- English and Hindi will be the official languages for all proceedings.
- Petitions should be filed in either Hindi or English, with an executive summary in Hindi if submitted in English.
- Documents in other languages will only be accepted if translated into Hindi or English and certified by the petitioner. In case of a dispute, the English version will prevail.
The Commission’s Seal
- The JSERC will have its own official seal, which will be used for all orders, notices, or certified copies issued by the Commission.
- All official documents will be stamped with the seal and certified by the Secretary or a designated officer.
Executive Powers
- The Chairperson of the Commission will be the Chief Executive, overseeing all executive functions.
- If the post of Chairperson is vacant, the senior-most Member will temporarily assume the executive responsibilities.
Officers and Staff of the Commission
- The JSERC has the authority to appoint a Secretary, officers, and other staff to assist in fulfilling its functions as per the Electricity Act.
- The Commission can also hire Consultants to provide expert advice and assistance on terms specified in the JSERC (Terms and Conditions for Appointment of Consultants) Regulations, 2024.
Role of the Secretary
- The Secretary is the principal officer of the Commission, responsible for various administrative functions including:
- Custody of the seal and records.
- Receiving and scrutinizing all petitions, appeals, and applications.
- Preparing summaries and briefs for Commission proceedings.
- Ensuring compliance with Commission orders and managing communications with government agencies and other stakeholders.
- The Secretary may delegate functions to other officers when required, and in their absence, another officer designated by the Chairperson will assume these duties.
Delegation of Powers
- The Commission can delegate its powers to Members or officers under the Electricity Act. This may include decisions related to regulatory matters and functions defined by the Act.
- The Chairperson retains the authority to review, modify, or revoke any orders made by the Secretary or officers if deemed necessary.
