CSERC Approves Open Access For 20 MW Solar PV Power Without Dedicated Feeder

Posted On - 3 September, 2024 • By - King Stubb & Kasiva

Summary

In a landmark decision dated August 2, 2024, the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) granted M/s RR Ispat, a unit of M/s Godawari Power & Ispat Limited, an exemption from the requirement of having a dedicated feeder to avail open access for their 20 MW solar PV power plant.[1] This decision was made under the provisions of Clause 5(5) of the CSERC (Connectivity and Intra-State Open Access) Regulations, 2011, and its subsequent amendments. The order allows the petitioner to use the existing common distribution feeder for consuming power from their solar plant, which is located remotely from their facility.

Case Timeline

  • February 2024: The petitioner’s solar PV power plant was synchronized and commissioned.
  • 2024: M/s RR Ispat filed a petition seeking exemption from having a dedicated feeder for availing open access for their solar power at the user end.
  • August 2, 2024: CSERC passed the order, granting the exemption under specific conditions.

Issue Raised

The primary issue in this case was whether M/s RR Ispat should be granted an exemption from the requirement of having a dedicated feeder to avail open access for their 20 MW solar PV power plant. The petitioner argued that their plant, located at Mahrumkala village in Khairagarh District, should be allowed to use the existing common distribution feeder instead of setting up a new dedicated feeder, which would be both costly and unnecessary given the remote location of the plant.

Appellant’s Arguments and Respondent’s Arguments

Appellant’s Arguments:

  1. Remote Location: The petitioner, M/s RR Ispat, highlighted the remote location of their solar power plant and requested the use of the existing common distribution feeder for consuming power.
  2. Regulatory Provision: They cited Clause 5(5) of the CSERC (Connectivity and Intra-State Open Access) Regulations, 2011, which empowers the Commission to grant exemptions from having dedicated feeders for bulk consumers under certain conditions.
  3. Commitment to Compliance: The petitioner agreed to the installation of the necessary metering equipment and data communication facilities to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Respondent No. 1 – CSPDCL’s Arguments:

  1. Regulatory Compliance: CSPDCL acknowledged that open access is generally permissible only for users connected through dedicated feeders. However, they indicated that the Commission could consider an exemption for the petitioner, provided certain conditions were met.
  2. Conditions for Exemption: CSPDCL proposed that the petitioner must install an ABT meter with AMR, RTU for online data communication, and must not claim damages in case of any feeder-related issues such as failures or maintenance.

Respondent No. 2 – CSPTCL’s Arguments:

  1. No Objection: CSPTCL did not object to the petitioner’s request for exemption, provided the petitioner fulfilled the required conditions, including the installation of appropriate metering and communication systems.
  2. Feasibility of Power Transmission: CSPTCL confirmed that it was feasible to transmit power from the injection point (220/132 kV Thelkadih substation) to the drawl point (132 kV Sector-A Urla substation) under open access.

Order

The CSERC, after hearing both parties and reviewing the submissions, decided in favor of the petitioner. The Commission granted the exemption from the requirement of having a dedicated feeder, subject to the petitioner fulfilling the conditions imposed by the respondents. These conditions include the installation of appropriate metering and data communication facilities, and the petitioner’s agreement not to claim any damages related to feeder issues.

Analysis

The CSERC’s decision underscores the regulatory flexibility available to address the practical challenges faced by power producers, particularly in cases involving remote locations. The exemption granted to M/s RR Ispat aligns with the provisions of the CSERC regulations, which allow for such exceptions when justified. The decision also highlights the importance of ensuring compliance with metering and communication requirements to maintain grid stability and operational transparency. By agreeing to these conditions, the petitioner demonstrated a commitment to adhering to regulatory standards while addressing their operational needs.

[1] https://cserc.gov.in/upload/order/O-59-2024_6065-1722581034-.pdf