Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission Announces Fresh E-Public Hearing in Nagpur
The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has declared a new e-public hearing concerning the review petition on electricity tariffs submitted by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL). This development follows a significant change in the commission's composition, with the appointment of new chairperson Valsa Nair Singh shortly after previous hearings concluded across six locations in the state.
Nagpur Hearing Details and Venue Information
In Nagpur, the e-public hearing is scheduled for February 10 at 10:30 AM at the District Planning Committee office, situated behind the Sadar police station. The commission has made provisions for stakeholders who encounter difficulties accessing electronic platforms, allowing them to attend the hearing in person at this designated venue. This accommodation ensures broader participation in the crucial tariff review process.
Consumer Concerns and Expert Criticism
The announcement of a fresh hearing on MSEDCL's review petition has sparked considerable apprehension among consumers and power experts alike. Many fear that this additional proceeding could further delay the tariff determination process, potentially allowing higher electricity rates to persist in the interim period. Power expert Sudhir Budhay expressed strong reservations about the frequency of these hearings, noting that while tariff reviews should ideally occur once every five years, this marks the third such proceeding within a single year.
"This represents a significant wastage of public resources," Budhay emphasized. "Furthermore, consumers are burdened with appearing multiple times for public hearings, creating unnecessary inconvenience and expense."
Background and Previous Proceedings
Earlier, acting upon directives from both the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court, MSEDCL had invited suggestions and objections from stakeholders through a public notice issued on December 5, 2025. The commission subsequently conducted e-public hearings across six locations between January 2 and January 8, covering Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Navi Mumbai, and Amravati. However, following the reconstitution of the commission with new leadership, MERC determined that fresh hearings were necessary to ensure proper consideration of all perspectives.
Commission's Position and Procedural Requirements
According to MERC officials, all suggestions and objections received within the stipulated timeframe, along with replies submitted by MSEDCL and related documentation, have been formally recorded for consideration in this de novo hearing process. The commission has identified several stakeholders who have expressed interest in presenting their views orally, with their names published on MERC's official website for transparency.
The commission has reiterated that all participants must strictly adhere to the practice directions and operational protocols for e-hearings established on November 14, 2022. MERC officials have urged stakeholders to actively utilize this opportunity to present their perspectives during the fresh hearing process before any final decisions are made regarding electricity tariffs.
This renewed hearing process represents a critical juncture in Maharashtra's power tariff determination, balancing regulatory requirements with consumer interests while navigating administrative changes within the commission's leadership structure.
