Assessing the impact of Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission's open access order for solar power generators in Karnataka

摘要

On 18 August 2014, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) passed order number S/03/01 called 'Wheeling Charges, Banking Charges & Cross Subsidy Surcharge for Solar Power Generators', whereby all solar power generators in the state who achieved Commercial Operation Date (COD) before 31 March 2018 were exempted from payment of wheeling and banking charges and cross subsidy surcharge for a period of ten years from the date of commissioning. This landmark order provided long term clarity for solar project developers and consumers. For certain categories of consumers (commercial), the exemption meant that solar energy became more viable while planning their energy mix. From KERC s perspective, the main drivers for passing this order was the low rate of growth of solar energy installations in Karnataka and the prevalent trend of a reducing solar tariff seen against rising utility tariffs. The Commission hoped that this measure would facilitate greater and rapid growth of solar energy through third party open access and captive routes. Given the importance of this order, WRI is keen to track its on-ground impact to serve as a feedback mechanism to KERC and as a learning for other state regulators who may be looking for solutions to increase the quantum of solar energy in their states.