Karnataka High Court Issues Notice on PIL Against Mandatory Installation of Smart Electricity Meters
Karnataka High Court Issues Notice on PIL Against Mandatory Installation of Smart Electricity Meters
  • Case Name: Karnataka Vidhyuth Sene & Others v State of Karnataka & Ors

The Karnataka High Court has issued notice to the state government and other authorities on a PIL challenging the compulsory installation of smart prepaid electricity meters even for existing consumers under KERC regulations. 

The petition, filed by senior advocate Lakshmy Iyengar, contends that the rollout is being forced without public consultation, causing a financial burden on consumers and allegedly violating their rights, and that all consumers would have to shift to smart meters. 

The petitioner argues that the implementation lacks transparency and accountability. A division bench sought responses from the government, BESCOM, and other petitioners. 

The matter is expected to be heard further after detailed responses are filed.

22 days ago

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CERC Approves ₹3.25–₹3.26/kWh Tariff for SECI’s 600 MW ISTS‑Connected Wind‑Solar Hybrid Projects
CERC Approves ₹3.25–₹3.26/kWh Tariff for SECI’s 600 MW ISTS‑Connected Wind‑Solar Hybrid Projects

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has approved tariffs for the Solar Energy Corporation of India's (SECI) 600 MW inter-state transmission system (ISTS)-connected wind-solar hybrid projects under Tranche IX. 

Tariffs of ₹3.25/kWh have been fixed for projects awarded at that price, and ₹3.26/kWh for the remaining capacity. 

While SECI sought a ₹0.07/kWh trading margin, CERC declined it, stating that such details will be governed by Power Sale Agreements between SECI and distribution companies. 

The Commission also resolved issues related to the adoption of the tariff, trading margin, and payment security mechanism.

Read Details / 22 days ago

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Kerala Commission Proposes Lifespan Rules for Renewable Energy Projects
Kerala Commission Proposes Lifespan Rules for Renewable Energy Projects

The Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) has released a draft regulation specifying the useful life for various renewable energy systems. 

The proposed durations are: 12 years for standalone Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), 25 years for solar PV (including floating and thermal), wind, biogas, biomass gasifier, and non-fossil fuel cogeneration projects, 20 years for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) power projects, and 40 years for hydroelectric plants.  

The draft also proposed a streamlined registration process. Eligible consumers must apply online within 45 days of technical feasibility approval. Licensees will verify documents within three working days and complete any required changes within seven days.

Read Details / 30 days ago

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MCX Receives SEBI Approval to Launch Electricity Derivatives
MCX Receives SEBI Approval to Launch Electricity Derivatives

On June 6, 2025, the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) secured approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to introduce electricity derivatives.  

This initiative aims to provide power generators, distribution companies, and large consumers with tools to hedge against price volatility, thereby enhancing efficiency in the power market.  

The move aligns with India's vision of 'Viksit Bharat' and underscores the commitment of regulators like SEBI and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) to foster a dynamic and sustainable energy market. 

Read Details / a month ago

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AP High Court Upholds Conviction of 84-Year-Old for Electricity Theft, Reduces Fine Due To Old Age
AP High Court Upholds Conviction of 84-Year-Old for Electricity Theft, Reduces Fine Due To Old Age
  • Case Name: Peram Venkata Reddy v. The State of Andhra Pradesh

The Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld the conviction of an 84-year-old man for electricity theft under Section 135(1)(a)(b) of the Electricity Act, 2003 reduced his fine from ₹2.7 lakh to ₹20,000.

The man was found guilty of tampering with the electricity meter and stealing power worth ₹44,859, as originally ruled by a Special Tribunal in Guntur. 

Hearing his appeal under Section 374(2) CrPC, the Court noted his age and time already served in jail.

The Court noted that the original fine was excessive, and the man will be released once the ₹20,000 is paid to the electricity company.

Read Judgment / a month ago

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DPIIT and GEAPP Launch ENTICE to Support Climate-Tech Startups with $500,000 Incentive
DPIIT and GEAPP Launch ENTICE to Support Climate-Tech Startups with $500,000 Incentive

India's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has partnered with the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) to bolster early-stage climate-tech startups.  

This two-year collaboration introduces the Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge (ENTICE), offering up to $500,000 in rewards for scalable clean energy solutions.  

The initiative provides startups with funding, mentorship, pilot opportunities, and market access, aiming to align with India's net-zero goals.  Investment support will be facilitated through partners like Spectrum Impact and Avana Capital.  

DPIIT plans to integrate this program into the Startup India network, enhancing its reach within the national entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Read Details / a month ago

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Telangana Launches ₹1 Crore Accident Insurance Scheme for Electricity Workers
Telangana Launches ₹1 Crore Accident Insurance Scheme for Electricity Workers

On May 26, 2025, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced a ₹1 crore accident insurance scheme for electricity department workers, marking a significant step in employee welfare.  

During an event at Praja Bhavan, he presented a ₹1 crore insurance cheque to the family of Jogun Naresh, an NPDCL worker who died on duty, and offered his wife, Ramesh Shrimati, a compassionate job in the department.  

Bhatti credited Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and the 'Indiramma government' for this initiative, which was first implemented in Singareni and now extended to the electricity sector, aiming to provide security and encourage dedicated service among employees.

Read Details / a month ago

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Supreme Court Upholds Adani Power’s Right to Compensation for ‘Change in Law’
Supreme Court Upholds Adani Power’s Right to Compensation for ‘Change in Law’

The Supreme Court has affirmed Adani Power Rajasthan Ltd’s (APRL) right to compensation under its Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Rajasthan's power distribution companies, including Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (JVVNL). 

The dispute arose from a December 2017 notification by Coal India Ltd (CIL) imposing a ₹50 per tonne Evacuation Facility Charge (EFC), which APRL claimed constituted a "change in law" under Article 10 of the PPA.

The Court applied the principle of restitution and said Adani Power must be restored to the same economic position as before the levy and is entitled to compensation and late payment surcharge as per the PPA.

Read judgement / a month ago

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Govt Drafts Rules Granting Pre-emption Rights Over Oil, Gas in National Emergencies
Govt Drafts Rules Granting Pre-emption Rights Over Oil, Gas in National Emergencies

The Central government has framed draft rules under the revamped Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, granting it pre-emption rights over all crude oil and natural gas produced in India during a national emergency.

These rules empower the government or existing shareholders to claim oil, gas, or related products before anyone else, ensuring public interest is safeguarded.

Producers will be compensated at the prevailing fair market price. Though the term “national emergency” remains undefined, events like war or natural disasters are expected triggers.

The draft rules also provide for oil and gas operators being exempt from their obligations under the Act in force majeure conditions.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has also invited public comments on drafts. 

Read Details / a month ago

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Haryana Launches Surcharge Waiver Scheme 2025 to Clear Power Dues
Haryana Launches Surcharge Waiver Scheme 2025 to Clear Power Dues

The Haryana government has launched the Surcharge Waiver Scheme 2025 to help electricity consumers clear pending dues.

This initiative will be active for six months from its start date. 

As per Energy Minister Anil Vij, domestic and agricultural users who pay their principal amount in one go will get a 10% rebate and 100% waiver on the surcharge.

If paid in four or eight EMIs, the full surcharge is still waived, though no rebate is given.

Industrial users get 50% surcharge relief on lump sum payments. Government departments, panchayats, and municipalities are also eligible for a full surcharge waiver.

Read Details / a month ago

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P&H High Court: Electricity is a Fundamental Right, Strikes Down Punjab Govt’s Cut-Off Date
P&H High Court: Electricity is a Fundamental Right, Strikes Down Punjab Govt’s Cut-Off Date
  • Case Name: Jaishree Bagga v. State of Punjab and Others

The Punjab & Haryana High Court struck down the Punjab Government notification that specified a cut-off date for granting electricity connections in unauthorized colonies.

The notification restricted connections only to those with property documents dated before July 31, 2024. The petitioner, despite legally purchasing land and securing approvals, was denied electricity due to this cut-off.

The court held that access to basic amenities like electricity is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution and found the cut-off date arbitrary and discriminatory. 

The Court directed the release of a permanent electricity connection and struck down the impugned clause in the November 2024 notification.

Court Order / 2 months ago

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Supreme Court to Decide If 'Regulate' U/S 79(1) of Electricity Act Includes Control Over Electricity Trade
Supreme Court to Decide If 'Regulate' U/S 79(1) of Electricity Act Includes Control Over Electricity Trade
  • Case Name: PTC India Limited v. MB Power (Madhya Pradesh) Limited

The Supreme Court, while hearing PTC India Limited's appeal against the Delhi High Court’s refusal to reject MB Power’s suit, issued an interim order restraining the encashment of a ₹15 crore Bank Guarantee and directed CERC to withhold its final order.

The key issue concerns the interpretation of “regulate” under Section 79(1) of the Electricity Act, 2003, whether it only refers to the power to make rules and regulations or also includes regulating electricity trade.

The dispute arose from the termination of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between the parties and the return of a Bank Guarantee. The High Court previously held the suit maintainable. 

The Supreme Court's final verdict is pending.

Court Order / 2 months ago

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Natural Gas to be Taxed at Every Stage of Sale: Telangana High Court Clarifies Classification Under APGST Act
Natural Gas to be Taxed at Every Stage of Sale: Telangana High Court Clarifies Classification Under APGST Act
  • Case Name: M/s. Andhra Fuels Private Limited vs. State of Andhra Pradesh

The Telangana High Court held that Natural Gas falls under Entry 23 of the 6th Schedule of the APGST Act, 1957, and is liable to be taxed as petroleum gas at every point of sale.

The petitioner argued that Natural Gas should be classified under Entry 118 of the 1st Schedule, which allows tax only at the first sale.

However, the respondent submitted that Entry 118 excludes petroleum gases. Since Natural Gas is similar to and used to petroleum gases, it would fall under Entry 23.

The Court accepted the respondent’s argument and held that Natural Gas is taxable at every stage of sale.

More details / 3 months ago

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Oilfields Amendment Bill 2024 Boosts Exploration Eases Rules and Promotes Fair Competition
Oilfields Amendment Bill 2024 Boosts Exploration Eases Rules and Promotes Fair Competition

The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, updates the 1948 law, clearly distinguishing oil and gas extraction leases from mining leases.

It removes outdated terms like "mine" and "excavated" for clarity and business ease. The bill broadens the definition of "mineral oils" and allows petroleum lease disputes to be settled through alternative methods, even internationally.

The bill replaces criminal penalties with fines for violations.

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that the bill will boost oil and gas exploration while promoting fair competition between government and private companies.

Business Standard / 3 months ago

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NCLT Rejects Talwandi Sabo Power’s Demerger Plan Over Hidden Debt
NCLT Rejects Talwandi Sabo Power’s Demerger Plan Over Hidden Debt
  • Case Name: Talwandi Sabo Power Limited v. Vedanta Limited

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has rejected Talwandi Sabo Power Limited’s (TSPL) demerger plan, which was part of Vedanta Limited’s restructuring.

The decision came after SEPCO, a creditor, objected, stating that TSPL failed to disclose a ₹1,251 crore debt in its proposal. NCLT found that TSPL’s financial statements had acknowledged this liability since 2019, but it was left out of the creditor list, impacting transparency.

A bench ruled that this non-disclosure violated Section 230(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2013, and could mislead creditors and shareholders, leading to the plan’s rejection.

Court Order / 4 months ago

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