CERC Amends Indian Electricity Grid Code Regulations

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued a notification announcing amendments to the Indian Electricity Grid Code Regulations, 2023. 

The amendments titled 'Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Indian Electricity Grid Code) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2024' is aimed at enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the electricity sector in India. One of the significant changes pertains to the injection of infirm power by generating stations. For most generating stations, excluding Renewable Energy Generating Stations (REGS) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS), the injection of infirm power is allowed for up to one year from the date of first synchronisation.

However, for REGS and ESS, this period is reduced to 45 days following the first-time energisation and integration. Extensions beyond these time frames can be applied for under specific conditions, ensuring flexibility for renewable energy sources.

The amendments also modify operational regulations, particularly regarding the definition of 'continuous operation'. This term will now refer to 'four hours on a cumulative basis in a single day,; offering clearer expectations for power generation activities. Additionally, new rules will allow generating stations to demonstrate their operational capabilities under specific water levels after they declare their commercial operation date (COD).

The scheduling of these generating stations will begin at midnight of the day following the declaration of COD, establishing a clear timeline for when power generation commences. Compensation mechanisms for thermal generating stations operating below their normative levels of generation have also been updated. The amendments clarify that compensation will depend on whether the tariffs for these stations are set under different sections of the Electricity Act, allowing for a structured approach to compensation for part-load operations. 

The changes have been made to the requirements for obtaining consent from beneficiaries regarding power scheduling. The new rules will permit adjustments to generation schedules during both peak and off-peak hours, ensuring that generating stations meet minimum operational levels while addressing the dynamic demands of the grid. Moreover, the amendments introduce specific limits on how many times generating stations can revise their declared capacity and schedules throughout a single day and month.

These limits will vary depending on the type of fuel used by the generating station, ensuring that all power plants can respond appropriately to varying operational conditions without compromising grid stability.

These amendments are expected to facilitate a smoother operation for power generators while ensuring a stable supply to meet growing energy demands. Stakeholders may refer to the official publication for comprehensive details regarding these regulatory changes.