Power regulator rejects proposal to recover SLC

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has rejected the proposal of MSEDCL, the state power utility’s distribution arm, to recover the service line charges (SLC) from its customers.

MSEDCL had sought the regulator’s approval for levying charges to recover costs such as laying supply lines and providing meters. The regulator found the terminology of ‘SLC’ used by MSEDCL totally misleading. In order to simplify the procedure while releasing the electricity connection, the Commission has decided to dispense with the measurement linked variable charges.

In case a consumer applies for an extension of load and if the release of additional load or contract demand entails any new works, the MSEDCL in such cases is allowed to recover normative charges.

The Commission has directed MSEDCL not to recover any cost towards meter and meter box except where the consumer opts to purchase the meter from the utility and in case of lost and burnt meter. However, the Commission has allowed MSEDCL to collect a token amount towards the application registration and processing charges.

MERC also asked the state utility not to charge any amount for first inspection and testing of consumer’s installation at the time of giving new connection. For all the subsequent tests and inspection of the installation, the charges proposed by MSEDCL are approved by the Commission.

The charges for changing the location of the meter within the premise will only be applicable where the shifting is to be done at the request of the consumer. The Commission has approved normative charges approved by MSEDCL with the condition that this should cover the total cost including the cost of material, labour, all other costs etc. required for changing the location of the meter.

It further clarified that the expenditure towards first testing of meter prior to release of new connection (even if the meter is purchased by the consumer) and all routine tests during the continuance of supply should be borne by the MSEDCL.
In case a consumer requests MESDCL to test the meter for accuracy, MERC has approved the charges prepared by MSEDCL. In the event of meter being tested and found beyond accuracy limits, the MSEDCL shall have to refund the charges paid by the customer, it ruled.