Maharashtra drags its feet on open access power

State Govt and MahaVitaran yet to issue directions on implementation of DOA regulations despite notification from MERC

Despite the notification of the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) on the Distribution Open Access (DOA) Regulations, 2016 on March 30, the state government and its distribution utility MahaVitaran are yet to implement the norms.

Several consumers have applied for no-objection certificate to participate in Day-Ahead Market of power exchanges but are waiting for procedural directions of MahaVitaran.

According to MERC’s DOA Regulations, the consumers having contract demand of 1 Mw and above can buy power through Open Access. Consumers also have the choice to reduce contract demand (CD) after Open Access is granted.

These regulations allow to source power from multiple sources, which was restricted in the 2014 regulations.

Further, eligible consumers can now buy power in the Day-Ahead Market on power exchanges.

State energy minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said the MERC’s DOA regulations would be implemented but didn’t share any timeline.

Rajesh K Mediratta, director (business development), Indian Energy Exchange, said, “With MERC issuing new Distribution Open Access Regulations enabling consumers to procure cheaper power though Day-Ahead Market, there is win-win for state government, discom and industries. Maharashtra will attract more industries for its ‘Make in India’. The cost of power is one of the key criteria considered in deciding locations for business.”