Hack of the day: How to claim compensation for power cut

Power cuts can be more than just a nuisance. They can disrupt work, spoil food, disrupt online classes, and leave essential appliances idle for hours. What many people do not realise is that electricity consumers in India have rights when supply standards are not met, and in some cases, you can claim compensation from your power distribution company (DISCOM).

Under the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, and various state-level performance standards, power distributors are required to maintain certain levels of reliability. If they fail to do so — especially in the case of unscheduled or prolonged outages — you may be eligible for compensation.

How Compensation Works

In many states, DISCOMs must automatically credit compensation to your electricity bill if they do not meet the guaranteed supply standards or fail to restore power within the regulated timeframe. The exact rules vary by state and regulator. For example, in Delhi, unscheduled power cuts lasting beyond certain hours lead to compensation credits of up to ₹50 per hour for initial hours and higher amounts thereafter, adjusted in your future bills.

How to Claim Your Compensation

1. Check Your State’s Rules: Visit your local power utility or regulatory commission website to understand the compensation guidelines specific to your area — amounts and conditions vary.
2. Document the Outage: Note the date, time, and duration of the power cut. Keep your bill cycle information handy.
3. File a Complaint with the DISCOM: Use the official portal, app, or customer care number to file a complaint citing the outage and your request for compensation under the consumer rights rules.
4. Track and Escalate: If there is no response, escalate to your state regulator’s Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) or the Electricity Ombudsman.

Knowing this process can help you hold utility companies accountable for supply failures and ensure you receive the compensation you are legally entitled to.