RERC Announced Draft Grid Interactive Distributed RE Generating Systems Second Amendment Regulations 2024

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

Introduction

The Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) has proposed amendments to the Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (Grid Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Generating Systems) Regulations, 2021.[1] These amendments aim to promote and streamline the integration of renewable energy sources into the state’s power grid. The proposed changes include provisions for net billing for educational institutions, simplified procedures for installing renewable energy systems, and timelines for technical feasibility studies and grid connections. These amendments also incorporate provisions from the Electricity (Right of Consumers) Amendment Rules 2024 issued by the Central Government.

Explanation (Key Points)

  1. Net Billing for Educational Institutions: Recognizing that educational institutions often have lower energy consumption during vacations, the amendments introduce a provision allowing them to opt for net billing for two months in a financial year. This means they can sell excess electricity generated from their renewable energy systems back to the grid and receive credit on their bills, even when their own consumption is low.
  2. Simplified Procedures for Renewable Energy Systems: To encourage the adoption of renewable energy, the amendments simplify the installation process for systems with a capacity of up to 10 kW. These systems are deemed accepted without requiring a technical feasibility study, and the distribution licensee is responsible for any necessary adjustments to the consumer’s sanctioned load.
  3. Timelines for Technical Feasibility and Grid Connection: The amendments establish clear timelines to expedite the integration of renewable energy systems. Technical feasibility studies must be completed within fifteen days, and the results must be communicated to the applicant. For systems up to 10 kW, the application is automatically accepted without a technical feasibility study. After installation, the distribution licensee has fifteen days to finalize the connection agreement, install the meter, and commission the renewable energy system.
  4. Incorporation of Consumer Rights Provisions: The amendments also incorporate provisions from the Electricity (Right of Consumers) Amendment Rules 2024, ensuring that consumer rights are protected in the context of renewable energy generation and grid interaction.

Conclusion

The proposed amendments to the RERC (Grid Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Generating Systems) Regulations, 2021, signify a progressive step towards a more sustainable energy landscape in Rajasthan. By simplifying procedures, offering net billing options for educational institutions, and establishing clear timelines, the RERC aims to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy sources. These changes are expected to benefit both consumers and distribution companies, fostering a cleaner and more reliable energy future for the state.

[1] https://solarquarter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Regulations-will-be-called-the-Rajasthan-Electricity-Regulatory_2024.pdf