The Arunachal Pradesh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (APSERC) has introduced the draft “Terms and Conditions for Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) and Methodology for Calculation of Charges Regulations, 2023,” which is a major step towards encouraging the incorporation of clean energy sources into the power sector. Through the intra-state transmission system (InSTS) and the distribution networks of state licensees, these laws are relevant for facilitating the open access to power derived from renewable energy sources. Systems related to the interstate transmission of electricity fall under this category.
The guidelines establish a detailed structure for both long-term and short-term open access. Long-term open access, extending for five years or beyond, complies with state grid code’s distribution planning regulations and transmission planning requirements. While, operational margins and the viability of accommodations govern short-term access, defined as one year or less. This comprises inherent design allowances, fluctuations in power flows, and excess transmission or distribution system capacities specifically designed for anticipated increases in load.
The duration of the consumer’s usage of the intra-state transmission and/or distribution system determines the category of consumers requesting open access. With provisions for short-term users to reapply based on priority, long-term and short-term users can be distinguished by the length of their access. Furthermore, Section 9 of the Electricity Act grants open access rights to owners of captive producing plants. Additionally, these regulations grant GEOA to consumers with a sanctioned load or contracted demand of 100 kW and higher. For handling long-term, medium-term, and short-term green energy open access, the Arunachal Pradesh State Load Despatch Centre functions as the State Nodal Agency. To share pertinent information through a centralised portal, this agency partners with transmission and distribution licensees. Current users and generators can continue utilising open access in accordance with their current agreements or government laws until the conclusion of the specified period. The renewal is contingent upon compliance with these regulations, and the charges will be determined by the commission.
GEOA users are given preference over regular open access users with priority order of long-term users, medium-term and short-term users on a first-come, first-served basis. The rules also outline specifications for transferring open access rights, prioritising curtailment according to system limitations, and the distribution licensees providing green certificates to consumers who surpass their obligations for renewable purchases.
