The Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission, issued a draft notification dated 07th February, 2024 detailing the amendments to the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Electricity Supply Code and Related Matters) Regulations, 2014. These Regulations will be known as Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Electricity Supply Code and Related Matters) (14th Amendment) Regulations, 2024.
The amendments cover various aspects related to the grant of feasibility clearance, submission of applications, determination of seniority for release of connection, deposit of applicable charges, and revision of sanctioned load for DS & NRS consumers not covered under the contract demand system. These amendments aim to streamline the processes related to electricity supply and ensure timely action by the distribution licensees.
The first major amendment, outlines the process for granting feasibility clearance to an applicant/consumer by the distribution licensee within a specified timeframe. It also addresses the consequences if the clearance is not granted within the stipulated period, including the payment of interest by the distribution licensee to the applicant.
Another significant amendment introduces separate queues for maintaining seniority in respect of applications for different categories of supply connections, based on the requirement for augmentation or extension of distribution infrastructure. The notification also details amendments and introduces provisions regarding the deposit of applicable charges and the processing of cases where consumers fail to comply with the demand notice.
Furthermore, the amendments include changes which deal with the transfer of electricity connections in case of joint ownership of land, and outlines the revision of sanctioned load for DS & NRS consumers not covered under the contract demand system.
Additionally, the document provides a historical overview of the previous amendments to the Principal Regulations, starting from the initial issuance in 2014, followed by subsequent amendments up to the 13th amendment in 2023. This comprehensive notification reflects the commission’s efforts to adapt and refine the regulatory framework in response to evolving needs and challenges within the electricity supply sector in Punjab.
