JERC’s draft rules offer shield to power consumers in Chandigarh

Failure to comply with these rules or repeated negligence in power supply may result in the suspension or cancellation of CPDL’s license in the public interest.Chandigarh: Power distribution company CPDL is set to face tighter operational norms, with the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) issuing draft conditions aimed at strengthening accountability and consumer protection.As per the draft regulations, Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) will be required to adhere to clearly defined service standards. The company must conduct an annual energy audit and publish reports on power losses and wastage on its website.The draft also mandates CPDL to prepare and publicise a comprehensive customer sharter, spelling out consumers’ rights, entitlements and responsibilities, along with the licensee’s obligations under the Electricity Act and other applicable laws. The charter will include guaranteed service levels, a consumer complaint-handling mechanism, a consumer rights statement, and access to information on electricity connections, consumption and assessments.CPDL will also have to comply with the complaint-handling procedure specified by the Commission. Copies of the procedure, revised from time to time, must be made available for public inspection at relevant premises during working hours. New consumers will receive the document free of cost, while others may obtain it at a price not exceeding duplication costs.The commission has retained powers to amend or modify the regulations suo motu or on an application by the licensee, subject to provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003, and JERC (Transmission and Distribution Licensing) Regulations, 2020.Failure to comply with the prescribed norms or repeated negligence in power supply could invite penal action, including suspension or cancellation of CPDL’s licence in public interest. The draft also directs CPDL to make arrangements for uninterrupted 24x7 power supply and comply with directions issued by the Electrical Inspector under the Electricity Act.CPDL is a deemed distribution licensee under the Electricity Act, 2003. Its licence is valid for 25 years—till January 31, 2050—from the effective date of implementation of the Transfer Scheme, 2025, unless revoked or renewed earlier in accordance with the law.JERC has invited objections and suggestions from the public on the draft regulations, with submissions open till May 20, 2026.BOX | Power disruptionsA thunderstorm on Monday morning triggered reports of power disruption in several parts of the city. Residents from sectors 36, 18, 19 and some southern sectors complained of erratic supply. “Power supply was disrupted repeatedly during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday,” said a resident of Sector 36.