In a significant move, the Electricity Regulatory Commission (ERC) has increased compensation for deaths caused by electric shock from ₹5 lakh to ₹8 lakh. The revised compensation will come into effect from April 1 and will be applicable even in cases where the accident occurred due to consumer negligence.
The ERC has also directed power distribution companies (DISCOMs) to ensure that compensation is paid within two months of the incident. In case of delays, DISCOMs must provide valid reasons for the lapse, as stated in the tariff orders issued on Wednesday.
The Commission further announced that there will be no change in electricity tariffs for the financial year 2026–27. Alongside, it issued several guidelines aimed at improving consumer services.
On financial matters, the ERC approved an additional expenditure of ₹7,635 crore under truing-up charges for 2022–23 and 2023–24. However, it deferred a decision on recovering this amount through electricity bills, following a request from the Telangana government, citing the ongoing process of forming a separate DISCOM for farmers.
Regarding high-tension (HT) consumers who used electricity beyond sanctioned load, the ERC upheld additional charges but ordered DISCOMs to refund excess amounts collected in the first two months due to lack of prior awareness. These refunds are to be adjusted in the next six billing cycles.
Similarly, in cases where rooftop solar users were overcharged for excess consumption, DISCOMs have been instructed to refund the additional amount within three billing cycles.
The Commission approved total DISCOM expenditure at ₹64,950.72 crore against the proposed ₹72,996 crore. It also sanctioned ₹49,230 crore towards power purchase costs, lower than the ₹54,567 crore requested.
The revenue-expenditure gap for both Northern and Southern DISCOMs in the new financial year is estimated at ₹15,105.91 crore. The state government has agreed to provide ₹14,000 crore, while the remaining deficit will be treated as a regulatory asset.
Safety Advisory: The ERC urged consumers, especially farmers in rural areas, to follow safety precautions. They should avoid handling electrical works themselves and ensure proper earthing for agricultural pump sets. Loose wires should not be left on the ground, and proper poles must be installed instead of temporary supports.
Adequate fuses must be used, and care should be taken to prevent water from entering switchboards. Electrifying farm fences to protect crops from wild animals is highly dangerous and should be avoided. Extra caution is advised around power lines passing through trees, especially during the rainy season.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: deccanchronicle.com
