Srinagar, Sep 03: The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has retained the green power tariff at Rs 0.50 per unit for consumers in Jammu and Kashmir, while directing the power distribution companies to step up efforts to improve revenue collection and reduce shortfalls.
The decision was taken while considering the tariff petitions filed by the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL).
According to the documents accessed by Rising Kashmir, the utilities informed the Commission that they were undertaking several measures to minimise revenue shortfalls and improve collection efficiency. These include plans to implement prepaid smart meters across 100 per cent of the consumer base.
According to the petitioners, the prepaid metering system would require consumers to pay for electricity upfront, thereby reducing the risk of unpaid bills. They said smart metering had already been initiated to reduce unmetered consumption and address distribution losses.
The utilities also highlighted amnesty schemes for defaulters, allowing consumers to settle outstanding dues with reduced penalties. They said the measure would help bring down accumulated receivables.
Other measures include strengthening the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF), expanding online bill payment facilities and conducting public awareness programmes on smart meters, timely payment of bills and energy conservation.
The JERC acknowledged the measures and directed the petitioners to continue their efforts.
On green energy, the Commission noted that the Ministry of Power (MoP), Government of India (GoI), has notified the Electricity (Promoting Renewable Energy through Green Energy Open Access) Rules, 2022, which enable consumers to procure and consume renewable energy.
The Commission observed that green tariff is a relatively new concept in J&K and renewable energy development remains at a nascent stage. It, therefore, decided to continue the green power tariff at Rs 0.50/kWh, payable by interested consumers over and above the applicable tariff.
Both high-voltage and low-voltage consumers will be eligible to opt for green power. Consumers can choose green power for 25, 50, 75 or up to 100 per cent of their consumption.
The request will have to be made for a minimum period of one year, while the distribution licensee will be required to process applications within 30 days.
The JERC has also directed JPDCL and KPDCL to give wide publicity to the scheme and submit its outcome in their next tariff petition.
