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The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission has introduced new rules under the “Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (Terms and Conditions for Open Access) Regulations, 2025.” These updated regulations allow specific electricity consumers to use the state’s power transmission and distribution systems. This change is expected to improve accessibility to electricity and promote competition in the power sector. Open access allows certain consumers to use the existing transmission and distribution lines of the state instead of relying solely on the local electricity supplier. The new regulations will benefit large power consumers who need 100kW or more, captive power plant owners, and electric vehicle charging stations under specific conditions. This will enable industries, businesses, and renewable energy producers to access power efficiently and at competitive prices. The process leading to these new regulations began when the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission had previously set rules for open access, including those for Green Energy Open Access. However, some of these rules were challenged in court, leading to legal disputes. The Karnataka High Court issued rulings on these matters, prompting the commission to introduce revised regulations. Before finalizing these new rules, the KERC consulted various stakeholders and gathered feedback to ensure the updated policies meet the needs of electricity consumers. Under the new framework, customers using the state’s transmission and distribution systems must follow the rules outlined in the regulations. The Karnataka State Load Despatch Centre has been assigned the responsibility of handling open-access applications. Consumers applying for open access will fall into different categories based on their usage period—long-term, medium-term, or short-term. This classification will help in the smooth management of power distribution. A key feature of the new regulations is the provision for electricity banking, which allows consumers using wind, solar, or hydropower to store their excess energy in the grid and retrieve it later when needed. This system will benefit renewable energy producers by improving energy management and promoting clean power usage. The updated regulations aim to streamline electricity distribution and access within Karnataka, ensuring a fair system for all eligible consumers. These changes are particularly significant for renewable energy users, industries, and electric vehicle infrastructure. By introducing these reforms, the KERC seeks to create a more efficient and competitive power sector while supporting the growth of sustainable energy solutions. The new framework is expected to encourage more investment in clean energy and provide a stable and transparent process for electricity consumers across the state. |
