Implementation of Smart Metering To Reduce Costs
The Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) guidelines mandate the deployment of smart meters through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) on a total expenditure (TOTEX) mode, ensuring a seamless transition and operational support to Distribution Companies (DISCOMS). The incorporation of prepaid smart metering for consumers and system metering at Feeder and Distribution Transformer levels streamlines energy accounting and auditing processes.
National Conference on Energy Transition in Gandhinagar
The conference delved into the critical aspects of energy transition, focusing on scaling up renewable energy generation and consumption. The discussions addressed challenges related to grid integration, financing tools, and the development of supporting infrastructure.
Biomass Price Benchmarking to Boost Sustainable Energy
Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) operating in the respective regions are strongly advised to adhere to the benchmark prices for biomass pellets. The Ministry of Power emphasizes the importance of compliance to accelerate capacity addition in pellet manufacturing and ensure a stable and sustainable biomass supply chain.
J&K and Ladakh Issue Regulations for Power Procurement and Planning
The introduction of these regulations aim at achieving a sustainable, transparent, and resilient power procurement framework in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The guidelines are expected to streamline processes, enhance energy security, and encourage the integration of renewable energy sources into the power mix.
GENCOs encouraged to Participate in CIRP of Stressed Power Assets
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has issued an advisory encouraging all States/ Generation Companies (GENCOs) to participate in the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) for taking over stressed thermal power assets. State-owned GENCOs are advised to acquire stressed power assets through IBC under the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) route and contribute to the overall generation capacity of the nation.
MoP directs all GENCOs on Timely Import of Coal
To ensure a consistent and uninterrupted power supply across the country, the Ministry of Power, in consultation with the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and Grid India, has made the decision to increase the blending of imported coal to a minimum of 6% by weight. Power generation companies (Gencos) are encouraged to continuously monitor their coal stock positions.
State Governments Imposing Unlawful Additional Charges on Electricity Generation
The government has emphasised that no state has the authority to impose taxes or duties on the generation or inter-state supply of electricity under the guise of additional charges or fees, regardless of the energy source—be it thermal, hydro, renewables, or any other.
Government launches Standards & Labelling Programme for Solar Panels
The star labelling scheme, prepared by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), for PV modules will be in effect from January 1, 2024, until December 31, 2025. Solar panel manufacturers are called to voluntarily register under the star labelling program. The programme will become mandatory after the initial two years.
Cabinet Committee Approves Green Energy Corridor Phase-II for 13 GW Renewable Energy Project in Ladakh
The transmission line to evacuate this power will traverse through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, extending up to Kaithal in Haryana, where it will integrate with the National Grid. An interconnection is also planned from this project in Leh to the existing Ladakh grid, ensuring a reliable power supply to the Ladakh region.
New “Dispute Avoidance Mechanism” Extended to Power Sector Projects
This extension of the “Dispute Avoidance Mechanism” is expected to have a positive impact on the power sector by promoting efficient dispute resolution, minimizing delays, and ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of power projects under the Ministry of Power’s purview.
