Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to Publish Draft Amendments Within a Month
In a significant development for Karnataka's power sector, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) chairman P Ravikumar announced that a draft amendment to the conditions of supply for electricity distribution licensees will be published within the next month. This move aims to streamline procedures and enhance regulatory efficiency across the state.
Public Participation and District Visits Promised
P Ravikumar emphasized that KERC will simplify various procedures through these amendments. Once the draft is officially published, the public will have the opportunity to review and submit their objections or suggestions. The chairman also assured stakeholders that the commission plans to visit the district soon to engage directly with local concerns and feedback.
Corruption Allegations in Electricity Pole Procurement
Thirthahalli MLA Araga Jnanendra raised serious allegations of corruption involving the Mangalore Electricity Supply Company (Mescom). He claimed that in 2021, the lowest bidder for RCC electricity poles quoted Rs 4,750 per pole, but after negotiations, Mescom fixed the price at Rs 5,186 for an 8-meter pole. In comparison, he noted that the Gulbarga Electricity Supply Company (Gescom) purchased poles at Rs 4,282 per pole, while he personally procured RCC poles at Rs 3,855 per pole.
Jnanendra further alleged that consumers are being burdened with additional costs, including pensions for Mescom staff. He also criticized hefty charges for new electricity connections and irrigation pumpset connections, claiming these practices unfairly increase consumer expenses.
Controversy Over Substation Construction
The MLA alleged that a substation in Mallandur was constructed primarily for the benefit of a coffee estate owner, suggesting preferential treatment. However, Mescom managing director R Jayakumar clarified that the substation is designed to benefit 67 villages, aiming to improve power supply and infrastructure for a broader community.
Poor Response to PM Surya Ghar Solar Scheme
Referring to the central government's PM Surya Ghar solar scheme, the KERC chairman highlighted that the response in Karnataka has been disappointing. He attributed this largely to the state government's Gruha Jyothi scheme, which provides free electricity up to 200 units of consumption. As a result, many consumers have shown little interest in installing rooftop solar systems under the Surya Ghar scheme, seeing less financial incentive due to the existing benefits.
Technical Issues with Smart Meters and Solar Projects
Participants at the meeting raised several technical concerns, including:
- Smart meters not functioning properly in areas with network problems, leading to billing and operational difficulties.
- Software glitches hindering the implementation of rooftop solar projects, causing delays and frustration among consumers.
In response, the KERC chairman directed Mescom not to delay implementations due to software issues and suggested that processes could be carried out manually if necessary to ensure progress.
Calls for Administrative Reforms and Efficiency
GK Bhat advocated for reducing Mescom's administrative costs to lower consumer tariffs. He also proposed automated switching for streetlights to prevent electricity wastage and urged stricter action against illegal power connections to curb losses and improve system integrity.
Local Complaints and Infrastructure Concerns
A resident of Kottara Chowki alleged that tree branches pruned by Mescom and left in stormwater drains caused flooding in the city, highlighting maintenance issues. He also claimed that Mescom blocked his email ID, raising concerns about transparency and communication.
Additional concerns were raised regarding the Udupi-Kasargode Transmission Limited (UKTL), though specific details were not elaborated. While Mescom was praised for providing good service despite staff shortages, it was noted that locals are not coming forward to take up jobs, with a majority of staff hailing from Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Kalaburagi—many of whom have reportedly sought transfers.
Demands for Greater Awareness and Safety Measures
A representative called for increased awareness about the Janaspandana programme to better engage the public. Safety concerns were also highlighted, with worries about cable wires being laid on electricity poles, which could pose risks to infrastructure and public safety.
Overall, the meeting underscored the need for regulatory updates, transparency in procurement, and improved technical and administrative practices in Karnataka's electricity sector to better serve consumers and ensure efficient power distribution.
