Introduction:
The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) has recently revised its green energy open access regulations, initially set in 2023. These amendments, following a thorough public hearing, are designed to streamline and enhance the open access framework for renewable energy within the state. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India has a goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, and these kinds of amendments help to reach that goal.
[Source: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (https://mnre.gov.in/)].
These regulations directly impact businesses seeking to adopt sustainable energy solutions.
Expanded Eligibility for Green Energy Open Access:
A critical change involves the broadening of eligibility criteria. Previously, only consumers with a contracted capacity of 100 kW or more could access green energy open access. Now, the HERC has made it clear that consumers with a combined contracted demand of 100 kW or more, spread across multiple connections within the same electricity operation division, are eligible.
This significant adjustment makes green energy open access more attainable for a wider range of commercial and industrial entities across Haryana.
Addressing Stakeholder Concerns: Fine-Tuning the Regulations
These amendments reflect feedback from key stakeholders, including Cleanmax Enviro Energy Solutions, the Distributed Solar Power Association, Hexa Sun Energy, and Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam.
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Clarity and Language Adjustments:
In response to stakeholder suggestions, the HERC has refined the wording to eliminate ambiguities and improve clarity within the regulations.
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Open Access for Non-Independent Feeders:
Eligible consumers not on independent feeders will be granted open access, provided they accept system constraints and power cut limitations. Under-drawal due to power cuts will not be compensated.
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Imbalance Charges and Captive Consumption:
Clearer guidelines have been established regarding imbalance charges and the ability of captive consumers to utilize long-term, medium-term, and short-term open access simultaneously, even beyond their contracted demand. Consumers can draw power without unnecessary restrictions, as long as they adhere to their approved contract demand.
HERC’s Focus on Grid Stability: Ensuring Reliable Renewable Energy Integration
The HERC has also released draft regulations on the Deviation Settlement Mechanism and related matters, focused on maintaining grid discipline and security through commercial deviation settlement.
This underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable electricity grid as Haryana increases its reliance on renewable energy sources. This directly ties into the green energy open access goals.
FAQs:
1. Who is now eligible for green energy open access in Haryana?
- Consumers with a combined contracted demand of 100 kW or more, across multiple connections within the same electricity operation division, are now eligible.
2. What is the duration of the surcharge exemption for offshore wind projects?
- Electricity generated from offshore wind projects commissioned until December 2032 and supplied to open access consumers will be exempt.
3. What is the HERC doing to ensure grid stability?
- The HERC has released draft regulations on the Deviation Settlement Mechanism to maintain grid discipline and security.
4. How can Novergy assist with these regulations?
- Novergy offers expert guidance on eligibility, application processes, and compliance with the Deviation Settlement Mechanism.
5. What are the key benefits of Green energy open access?
- Green energy open access allows businesses to gain access to cleaner energy, reduce their carbon footprint, and lower electricity costs.
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