AERC releases microgrid regulations

The Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission (AERC) has released regulations for generation and supply of renewable energy from mini-grids (10 kW to 500 kW of installed capacity) and microgrids (up to 10 kW of installed capacity) in the state’s rural areas. The generated electricity from these systems will contribute towards the RPO of the state. Under the regulation, the AERC will require all existing micro/mini-grid projects to comply with the Central Electricity Authority [CEA] Regulations, 2010; CEA Regulations, 2012; and CEA Regulations, 2006. Moreover, the microgrid and mini-grid operators will be responsible for the operations and maintenance (O&M) of the primary distribution network as well as the cost of the interconnection network from the renewable energy system to the interconnection point. In addition, micro/mini-grid operators will mutually decide on the supply tariff and the billing and payment mechanism with their consumers, after approval from the AERC.