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Comments on draft MERC (Framework for Resource Adequacy) Regulations, 2024
- Strengthening effective demand forecasting for multiple time horizons.
-Preferable to have 15-min block wise forecasts in line with the energy accounting and DSM/F&S practices rather than hourly.
-Importance of comprehensive disaggregated input data.
-Account separately for full and partial Open Access and Captive demand.
-Use of same detailed scientific demand forecast as done under RA in the MYT process. - Consider mandating 10 year (LT) Distribution Resource Adequacy Plan (LT-DRAP)
- Need for capacity building and a trial period (1-2 years) without penalties/non-compliance charges for non-compliance of RA.
- Need for synergy in practice across different regulations (e.g. MYT and RA regulations).
- Methodology to determine capacity credits, experimenting with few methods
- Explicitly state Planning Reserve Margin (PRM)
- Good innovation in allocation formula of share in National Peak
- Who is responsible for the resource adequacy for OA & CPP demand?
- Further clarifying nature of contracts and allowable contracts
- Finer resolution (preferably 15-min) of the RA studies
- Leveraging wider sector expertise in the country and mandatory public hearings prior to finalizing & approving RA studies and the procurement plans.
- Need for enhanced transparency
- Broadening scope of Energy Storage
Suggestions and Comments on Draft Chhattisgarh State Electricity Supply Code (Fourth Amendment), 2024
Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued draft 4th Amendment to Supply Code, 2011 and has invited public comments till 4th March, 2024. Prayas (Energy Group) would like to provide some suggestions on the same. Our comments are detailed below.
Broadly, our submission dealt with issues in provisions related to definitions, applicability, recharging, reconnection, arrear treatment, bill settlement, information communication to consumers and data privacy.
CEA’s Draft Distribution Perspective Plan 2030 : Comments from Prayas (Energy Group)
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) uploaded the Draft Distribution Perspective Plan 2030 for comments in February 2024. This was the logical next step to the publication of CEA’s Electricity Distribution Network Planning Criteria, 2023, which elaborates the objectives and methodology for network planning.
Comments from Prayas (Energy Group) have been prepared with an objective of contributing to the improvement of distribution infrastructure planning and operation. These comments are given under the heads mentioned below:
- Scope of the Perspective Distribution Plan
- Demand assessment
- Network planning approach
- Repair and Maintenance requirements
- Technology options for smart distribution
- Capacity building
Understanding India’s coal imports: The discourse around coal shortages in India needs course correction
With the onset of summer, there is talk of potential electricity shortages in the country. Coal shortage is considered the primary reason for this. But this statement needs unpacking and deeper understanding to find the true cause of the shortage and the best way to meet it.
This article published in The Hindu on 29th March 2024, explores this issue. It highlights that the challenge is more about coal transport logistics, rather than availability of domestic coal, and that imports need not be the only option to address the shortage. It also discusses the roles of electricity regulators and distribution utilities in ensuring that consumers do not end up paying for inefficiencies in coal procurement.
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