MoP issues draft Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2023

The Ministry of Power (MoP) has issued the draft Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2023. According to the draft rules, a new rule is proposed to make provision that no transmission licence will be required for the dedicated transmission line to connect large consumer and energy storage system. To rationalise the open access charges, the draft rules prescribe methodology for computing various open access charges. Further, draft rules propose to ensure that revenue gap/regulatory assets are not created except in extraordinary circumstances and provide for time bound liquidation of the same. Furthermore, it proposes to mandate upfront part payment of dues before filing an appeal before the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity or higher court to discourage frivolous litigations. The ministry has sought comments on the draft by July 28, 2023.