Bidding Guidelines for Pumped Storage Plants

The guidelines acknowledge the challenges posed by the variability of renewable energy sources and emphasize the crucial role of energy storage systems (ESS) in ensuring grid stability. Pumped storage plants are recognized as a vital component of India’s ESS strategy, complementing battery energy storage systems (BESS).

CERC (Terms and Conditions of Tariff) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2025

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Terms and Conditions of Tariff) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2025, effective from April 1, 2024. These amendments introduce several changes impacting power generation tariffs, cost calculations, and operational procedures.

Public Consultation Invited on Alternative Mechanism for Fuel and Power Purchase Adjustment Surcharge (FFPAS) Charges

A fixed “Base Fuel and Power Price Adjustment Surcharge” (Base FPPAS) would be collected from consumers along with their monthly electricity bills. The State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) would determine the Base FPPAS as a percentage of the monthly average billing rate. This percentage would be based on the average FPPAS of the past three years and the DISCOM’s proposal for the current year.

Government Pushes for Faster Broadband Expansion with OPGW Fiber Leasing

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged the Ministry of Power (MoP) to facilitate broadband expansion by allowing the leasing of fibers on Optical Ground Wires (OPGW) installed by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PowerGrid). This move aims to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas.

New Guidelines Issued to Enhance Power System Operations

These guidelines aim to ensure that LDCs are staffed with sufficient skilled personnel to handle the increasing complexity of power system operations. They provide a framework for determining the optimal number of staff required, their qualifications, and training needs.

Government Seeks Public Input on Draft Renewable Energy Procurement Amendments

These draft amendments aim to streamline the procurement process for renewable energy projects by providing greater clarity for developers and procurers. The proposed changes in PPA duration and generator availability are expected to improve project viability and attract more investors. Additionally, enhanced weather monitoring and cybersecurity measures can ensure reliable and secure power generation.

CERC Issues Directives to Ensure Power Supply During Peak Demand Period

All SLDCs and RLDCs must submit details of their operational planning for October 2024, including resource adequacy assessments. Distribution companies can procure power from surplus or requisitioned capacity in other states during shortages. Generating companies should address technical issues to ensure maximum capacity on-bar.

Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Battery Swapping and Charging Stations

The guidelines apply to providers of swappable batteries, as well as owners and operators of battery charging stations and battery swapping stations located anywhere in India. The guidelines apply to providers of swappable batteries, as well as owners and operators of battery charging stations and battery swapping stations located anywhere in India. Owners of battery charging stations or battery swapping stations can utilize their existing electricity connections for charging swappable batteries, with or without increasing the connected load.