UPPCL seeks two-week extension on fuel surcharge clarification

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has sought a two-week extension from the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (UPERC) to submit its reply on queries related to the computation and levy of the Fuel and Power Purchase Adjustment Surcharge (FPPAS) for June 2026.The development comes after the seven-day period granted by UPERC to UPPCL for submitting its response expired on Sunday.In a letter addressed to the commission on Monday, UPPCL managing director Nitish Kumar stated that the information sought by UPERC is currently being compiled.“The corporation is also examining practices adopted by other state electricity regulatory commissions and their regulatory frameworks on similar issues,” read the letter.UPPCL requested additional time to furnish the requisite clarification and assured the commission that the matter is being accorded priority and that a detailed response would be submitted within the extended period sought.The request for more time has, however, drawn criticism from the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Upbhokta Parishad. Parishad chairman Avadhesh Kumar Verma has urged UPERC to take immediate action regarding the continued recovery of the disputed 10% FPPAS, which the commission has reportedly found prima facie contrary to applicable regulations.In a representation submitted to the commission, Verma questioned the basis on which the surcharge was imposed on consumers if UPPCL still requires additional time to collect and verify the relevant data and records.He argued that continued recovery of the disputed amount during the pendency of the proceedings could adversely affect millions of electricity consumers across the state.The consumer body has requested UPERC to immediately suspend recovery of the disputed surcharge, seek a detailed explanation from UPPCL regarding its request for additional time, and direct the utility to place all calculations and supporting documents on record. It has also sought protection of consumer interests through refunds or future bill adjustments if any recovery is ultimately found to be contrary to regulations.