Jharkhand State Grid Code 2026 Draft Released: Stakeholder Feedback Invited on Power Grid Regulations

Ranchi: The Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission (JSERC) has released a draft JSERC (State Grid Code) Regulations, 2026, which outlines protocols for the planning, operation, maintenance and management of the power grid.JSERC has initiated a consultation period, inviting stakeholders and citizens to submit their feedback and recommendations on the code by May 11.JSERC secretary Rajendra Prasad Nayak said, “These regulations apply to pivotal entities including the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC), the State Transmission Utility (STU), various transmission and distribution licensees, power generation firms, and open-access consumers.”The proposed code mandates the formation of a grid coordination committee (GCC) to oversee planning and operations. Composed of representatives from the STU, SLDC and generation, transmission, and distribution sectors, its primary goal would be to enhance the safety, reliability and strategic planning of the power infrastructure.The draft code is structured into nine sections to ensure efficient management of the state’s electrical network. The introductory section defines the scope, applicability and mandate of the GCC. Subsequent chapters cover the systematic planning of the transmission system, rigorous rules for grid connectivity, and essential safety protocols through a ‘protection code’.The framework also provides rules for daily grid operations, manages the scheduling and dispatch of power, addresses commercial financial settlements, and incorporates critical measures to defend the grid against cyber threats.Under these guidelines, STU is responsible for creating a five-year transmission plan that will undergo annual updates. The grid architecture must be resilient enough to ensure that a single fault does not compromise the entire system.In terms of protection and operational standards, all systems are required to maintain appropriate protection mechanisms and undergo an annual ‘protection audit’. SLDC will exercise central authority over grid operations, and all participating entities are obliged to follow its directives. Additionally, the ‘commercial code’ will oversee the settlement of electricity transactions, with provisions for penalties in cases of deviation from scheduled power production or usage.To fortify the grid against digital vulnerabilities and cyber attacks, the regulations mandate consistent security audits and technological upgrades. Strict adherence is required, as failure to comply with the regulations may result in financial penalties or disconnection.Nayak said, “The final version of the regulations will be published after a comprehensive review of all feedback received from the public and industry stakeholders.”