M P E R C. Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission. Consumer Empowerment

Transcription

1 M P E R C Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission Consumer Empowerment

2 C O N T E N T S M P Electricity Regulatory Commission and its Consumer Advocacy Cell How MPERC helps you as a Consumer of Electricity - Page Page What you need to know - Page Power Disconnection How to Avoid Calculate Your Electricity Consumption and Bill - Page Page Theft of Electricity - Page - 32 Electrical Safety - Page - 37 Page 2

3 V I S I O N TO BLEND INTERESTS OF CONSUMERS & POWER COMPANIES TO ACHIEVE ULTIMATE OBJECTIVE OF PROVIDING RELIABLE QUALITY SUPPLY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE WITH IMRPOVED CONSUMER SERVICES Page 3

4 1 MP Electricity Regulatory Commission and its Consumer Advocacy Cell Page 6

5 A1: MADHYA PRADESH ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION 1.1 Who is MPERC? The Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission was constituted by the Government of Madhya Pradesh, Department of Energy under the power vested in Section 17(7) (3) of Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998 (No 4 of 1998), vide notification No 5726-F Thirteen- 98, Bhopal dated 18th August 1998 Subsequently the State Government enacted the Madhya Pradesh Vidyut Sudhar Adhiniyam, 2000 (No 4 of 2001) which was made effective from 3 rd July This Act gave wide ranging powers to the Commission on licensing, tariff determination and powers to issue Codes and Regulations, as may be necessary to perform its functions. A comprehensive legislation was enacted by the Govt. of India in the form of the Electricity Act, This Act has introduced several new MPERC was formed on 18 th August 1998 under Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998 provisions and mandates several new functions and responsibilities on the State Electricity Regulatory Commissions. The Electricity (Amendment) Act, 2007 has made changes to some of the provisions of the Electricity Act, Provisions with regard to unauthorized use/ theft of electricity have been made more stringent. Page 7

6 1.2 Functions of MPERC Subject to the provisions of Electricity Act, 2003, the Commission shall discharge, amongst others, the following functions, namely: Determine the tariff for generation, supply, transmission and wheeling of electricity, wholesale, bulk or retail, as the case may be, within the State: Regulate electricity purchase and procurement process of distribution licensees including the price at which electricity shall be procured from the generating companies or licensees or from other sources through agreements for purchase of power for distribution and supply within the State; Facilitate intra-state transmission and wheeling of electricity; Issue licenses to persons seeking to act as transmission licensees, distribution licensees and electricity traders with respect to their operations within the State; Promote co-generation and generation of electricity from renewable sources of energy by providing suitable measures for connectivity Develop and enforce different Regulations including Grid Code and Distribution code to ensure safety, quality, continuity and reliability of services quality, continuity and reliability of service by licensees; Fix the trading margin in the intra-state trading of electricity, if considered, necessary; and MPERC ensures the quality of service, the tariff and charges payable considering the interest of the consumer and the licensee with the grid and sale of electricity to any person, and also specify, for purchase of electricity from such sources, a percentage of the total consumption of electricity in the area of a distribution licence; Adjudicate upon the disputes between the licensees, and generating companies and to refer any dispute for arbitration; Specify State Grid Code consistent with the Central Grid Code Specify or enforce Standards with respect to Promote efficiency and competitiveness in electricity industry The State Commission shall advise the State Government on all or any of the following matters, namely : o promotion of competition, efficiency and economy in activities of the electricity industry; adjudicate upon the disputes between the licensees and generating companies o promotion of investment in electricity industry; o reorganization and restructuring of electricity industry in the State; Page 8

7 o matters concerning generation, transmission, distribution and o Trading of electricity or any other matter referred to the State Commission by that Government. 1.3 Powers of the Commission The Commission shall, for the purpose of any inquiry or proceeding under this Act, have the powers as are vested in a Civil Court under the Code of Civil Procedure,1908 (5 of 1908) while trying a suit, in the following matters: Summoning and enforcing of attendance of any witness and examination on oath; Discovery and production of any document or other material object producible as evidence; Reception of evidence on affidavits; Requisition of any public record from any court or office; Issue of commission for examination of witnesses; Review of its decisions, directions and orders and The Commission has the power as a Civil Court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 Any other matters which may be prescribed by the State Government. Regulatory decisions affect the public and consumers at large, particularly decisions related to tariffs, access and quality of supply, new generation and licence applications. It is a legal requirement that the decision-making process should be fair and transparent. All decisions, directions and orders of the Commission shall be in writing and shall be supported by reasons. The decisions, directions and orders of the Commission including those of the dissenting member, unless otherwise specified by the Commission, shall be available for inspection by any person and copies of the same shall be made available in a manner the Commission may prescribe. Page 9

8 1.4 Constitution of the Commission The State Govt. forms a selection committee headed by a person who has been a Judge of the High Court. The Chief Secretary of the State & Chairperson of CEA or Central Commission are the other members of the selection committee to select the Chairman and Members of the State Regulators. MPERC consists of one Chairman and two Members. The Chairman works as a Chief Executive of the Commission. The Chairperson and the Members of the State Commission shall be persons of ability, integrity and standing who have adequate knowledge of, and have shown capacity in, dealing with problems relating to engineering, finance, commerce, economics, law or management. The Regulator is supported by Directors, Joint Directors and Deputy Directors backed up by functional experts in the economic, technical, financial, legal, research, policy development, human resources, IT & stakeholder management and consumer services areas. 1.5 Consumer Advocacy Cell The Commission has formed a Consumer Advocacy Cell in its office. The Cell is headed by Deputy Director (LR) of the Commission. His Mobile Number for providing assistance to the consumers is Page 10

9 The main functions of Consumer Advocacy Cell are: (i) To empower consumers to participate effectively in the regulatory process. (ii) To represent consumers on all matters relating to power sector. (iii) To act as a source of information to the consumers on the issues of electricity. (iv) To arrange Workshops and Training Programmes for Consumer Advocacy Groups/NGOs/SHGs. (v) To publish News-letters, fact-sheets and other informative materials. (vi) To handle grievances and complaints of electricity consumers received in the Commission and to arrange to conduct survey and publish reports on the issues related to consumer services. (vii) To disseminate information through use of TV Media, Radio and Print Media. (viii) To work as an interface between the Commission and the consumers and bring out relevant issues to the knowledge of the Commission for protection of consumers interests. Page 11

10 2 HOW MPERC HELPS YOU AS AN ELECTRICITY CONSUMER Page 12

11 A2: HOW MPERC HELPS YOU AS AN ELECTRICITY CONSUMER 2.1 Ensure quality supply and faster dispute resolution through Regulations The commission has notified the following regulations to ensure quality and reliability in supply of electricity by the licensee with performance guarantee standards to take care of the consumers interests and at the same time defined different charges to be paid by the consumers at proper time to the licensee for a viable commercial business. Madhya Pradesh Electricity Supply Code : This Code provides conditions to govern supply and retail sale of electricity by the licensees and procedures thereof, the powers, functions and obligations of the licensees and the rights and obligations of consumers, and matters connected therewith and incidental thereto. In brief it prescribes about the service conditions between the licensee and the consumers. Distribution performance standards : The objective of this regulation is as follows: To ensure that the Distribution System s performance meets a minimum guaranteed standard which is essential for the consumer s installation to function properly. To enable the consumer to design their systems and equipments to suit the electrical environment that they operate in. To enhance the quality of standards of the Distribution System and services to meet acceptable standards in the short term and gradually move towards improved standards in the long term. Performance Standards Regulations ensure compensation to consumer for under performance This regulation empowers consumers to get compensation for under performance by licensee. Security Deposit Regulation : To ensure recovery of reasonable security deposit in line with the provision of the Electricity Act, 2003 from the consumers, the Commission has prescribed the detailed procedure and quantum of the security deposit to be collected from the various consumer categories: Licensee may collect Security Deposit from all consumers in respect of the meters, line and plant provided for the connection and supply of energy. The Security Deposit shall be accepted in the form of cash or bank draft only. Cheques will be acceptable only subject to the condition that supply will be possible to commence only on realization of cheque. Page 13

12 Establishment of Forum and Ombudsman for grievance redressal : The MPERC recognizes the urgency and need for enhancing the levels of services to the electricity consumers in the State. It accords high importance to the rights of consumers. Keeping in view the objective of safeguarding consumers interests, the Commission has directed in the Regulations to establish the Electricity Consumers Grievance Redressal Forum and Electricity Ombudsman for redressal of grievances. At present there are three Forums, one each at Bhopal, Indore and Jabalpur at the Head Quarters of Distribution Licensees. The Ombudsman is having his office at the MPERC. The Forums & Ombudsman also visit places other than their HQ to reach to the consumers to solve their grievances. The consumer has the right to complain about the quality of service rendered by the licensee. If the consumer is not satisfied with the outcome or the manner in which the complaint is handled by the licensee, the consumer may refer the matter to the Forum and if he is still not satisfied with Forum s decision then he can make an appeal to the Ombudsman for settlement of his grievance. Grievance Redressal Forums handle complaints including: Quality of supply Billing and accounting queries Quality of service The Forum and Ombudsman ensure redressal of grievances which are not solved by the Licensee 2.2 Initiatives to protect consumers interests The Commission has taken a number of initiatives such as effective monitoring of redressal of consumers grievances through the Forums, demonstrating its willingness for development of cleaner form of energy in the State by determining the tariff for different sources of new and renewable energy such as wind, bio-mass, small hydro, etc. It keeps on organizing various Workshops from time to time to bring the issues related to consumer services to the fore and reiterates its resolve on World Consumer Protection Day not to relent till all the consumers are satisfied. It remains the Commission s perception and firm belief that the interests of the utilities and the welfare of the consumers are inter-related. The Commission has been pressing hard on the licensees to liberally extend consumer associated facilities such as Anytime Anywhere Payment, Anytime Payment, 24 hours working of Call Centres, implementation of performance standards, etc. The Commission has taken initiative for conducting consumer satisfaction surveys. On the Commission s initiative, the Discoms have commenced facility for online registration of complaints at their Call Centres at Bhopal, Jabalpur and Indore. The facility for online review of status of complaints lodged with the Forums etc has been made available on the Commission s website Page 14

13 The Commission s aim is to empower the consumers so that they can realize their rights to get power in a more convenient and hassle-free manner. The Commission is also untiring in its efforts to make consumers responsible and responsive to the ever-changing power scenario of the State. 2.3 How to lodge a complaint? The Consumer needs to lodge a complaint related to supply and billing at licensee s designated offices, Call Centres or any other location as published/displayed from time to time. Depending on the nature of complaint, the same will be assigned to the designated officers. There are two levels of complaints handling internal redressal mechanism with the licensee. If the complaint is not solved at level 1 then it moves to higher officer at level 2. If the consumer is not satisfied with the action taken by the licensee then he may lodge complaint to the Forum in writing with all relevant documents. Again if the consumer is not satisfied with the decision of the Forum then he may make an appeal to the Ombudsman. Page 15

14 3 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All distribution companies are required to follow license conditions prescribed by MPERC. Distribution Company is responsible to supply power on demand if technically feasible and provide requisite services. Page 16

15 A3: WHAT YOU AS A CONSUMER NEED TO KNOW 3.1 Supply/ charges of electricity All Distribution Companies (Discoms) of the State have to take distribution license from MPERC. The existing distribution companies of the State are deemed licensees as per the Electricity Act Discom can appoint franchisee for distribution of supply to consumers in an area under its jurisdiction. Supply of electricity should be governed by the Regulations published by the Commission time to time. Supply should be given with a working meter and the tariff should be applicable as per category specified in latest tariff order. Normally the tariff is supposed to be reviewed once a year but it can be multiyear tariff also. Supply should be provided at different voltage levels depending on the load requirement of the consumers. The Licensees are required to maintain the standards of supply and services as prescribed by the MPERC. 3.2 Responsibility of the Licensee towards consumers The licensee has to provide supply on application within the specified time frame as prescribed in the Supply Code, if technically feasible and requisite charges are paid. The licensee will inform the consumers about tariff and other charges from time to time. Licensee will inform about the location and contact no. of call centers, collection centers, cheque drop boxes and other facilities meant for consumers. The licensee will maintain a healthy distribution network to provide reliable, quality and safe power to consumers. It has also to ensure prompt response to the consumers needs and redressal of complaints within the time frame fixed by the Commission. Call center telephone no. for Bhopal is 12660, , For Jabalpur it is 12660, & for Indore it is 1912, , Page 17

16 3.3 Nature of complaints: Interruption in power Voltage related Load shedding/schedule outage Meter related Electric bill Disconnection and reconnection Delay in new connection/ reduction or enhancement of load etc. 3.4 Documents required for new connection Following documents need to be submitted with the application: Proof of ownership of the premises Or, Proof of occupancy Or, In case of supply for agriculture/ irrigation pump set, the khata nakal giving the khasara number Approval / permission of the local / statutory authority, if required under any law /statute. In case of a partnership firm, partnership deed, authorization in the name of the applicant for signing the requisition form and agreement. In case of a Public or Private Limited Company, Memorandum and Articles of Association and Certificate of incorporation 3.5 The billing and collection by the Licensee Depending on the category & location of consumers, bills are raised in a frequency of one month to three months. The meter readers carry the meter reading book or hand held machines and take meter readings. Bills are prepared at the distribution centers and served through outsourced agencies or departmental employee. Bill should contain the initial and final meter reading, total units consumed, electricity charges, any other charges and arrears (if any). Details to be shown in the bill have been prescribed by the Commission. Consumers are advised to keep a record of meter reading during the time of meter reading period to compare with the bill. For any mismatch he may contact the nearest office for rectification. Page 18

17 In case the consumer is uncertain about the meter accuracy, he may get his meter tested at the licensee s testing facility by paying the requisite charges. Apart from IREDA, CPRI, Govindpura, Bhopal have also been authorised as third party independent agency for meter testing, where the consumers can get their meter tested. Consumers are advised to pay the bill amount within due date at the cash collection centres. The detailed list of the cash collection centers is available on the web-site of the respective Discoms. No cash payment should be made to the employee engaged for meter reading or bill distribution until specific instruction or document has been circulated by the appropriate authority. Consumers may pay their bill by cheque in cheque drop boxes and through ECS wherever such services are available. 3.6 Consumer Education The licensee shall conduct consumer education programmes on the safe, efficient and effective use of electricity or on any aspect that is ancillary to electricity supply that may increase the consumer s understanding and usage of electricity efficiently. The licensees are encouraged to promote the safe and efficient use of energy through educational institute by involving the students who are the future citizens. The licensee also has a duty to inform consumers about the different tariffs levied, how they apply, their impact and suitability. Page 19

18 3.7 Consumer s responsibility The consumer is responsible for the safe wiring and installation of electrical switches and electrical equipments in the consumer s house or premises. The consumer may seek the services of a qualified electrician to do the wiring of the house and necessary earthing arrangements. Good quality and adequate capacity of wire and equipment will ensure safe and reliable power supply. It is expected that the consumer should verify the qualifications of the electrician for the task required to be performed. In case of any leakage in power supply, get it rectified immediately. Replace defective electrical fittings and appliances promptly. Avoid loose connections & joints. If energy meter is found stopped/defective please bring the matter to the knowledge of the Discom authorities immediately in writing. Ensure safety of meter and metering equipments with waterproof meter box. Meter or any other part of the meter should not be bypassed or tampered. Tampering of meter or unauthorised use of energy is a cognizable and non-bailable offence as per the Electricity (Amendment) Act, Consumers are expected to use electricity only for the purpose for which the service connection is given. Use of energy for other purpose or extension of energy to other premises is a punishable offence and may also invite penalty. Construct building with proper clearance from HT/LT tension lines as per I E Rules Pay energy bills regularly at authorized cash counters only or other such payment modes offered by the Distribution Company within due date to avoid inconvenience due to disconnection. The consumer has the responsibility to contact the local authority of the Distribution Company if the consumer has not received monthly bill. The consumer has the responsibility to continue paying for current consumption even though there might be a dispute with the electricity account/bill. If the consumer is not happy with the manner in which a billing complaint has been dealt with, the consumer has a right to lodge the complaint with Forum or Ombudsman. In the present scenario of power shortage as well as to save precious fuel that goes into power production for our future generations, it is the responsibility of each and every individual to SAVE POWER. The consumer has a moral responsibility to avoid wastage of power. Switch off lights, fans and other electrical equipments when not required. Use only standard equipments which are energy efficient. This will also reduce the electricity bill. Page 20

19 4 DISCONNECTION OF POWER HOW TO AVOID As per the agreement with the licensee all the consumers are required to pay the charges of electricity consumed within the stipulated time, otherwise as empowered in the Electricity Act, 2003, power supply is liable to be disconnected. Page 21

20 A4: DISCONNECTION OF SUPPLY HOW TO AVOID 4.1 What Electricity Act says about disconnection The clause 56(1) of the Electricity Act provides that Where any person neglects to pay any charge for electricity or any sum other than a charge for electricity due from him to a licensee or the generating company in respect of supply, transmission or distribution or wheeling of electricity to him, the licensee or the generating company may, after giving not less than fifteen clear days notice in writing, to such person and without prejudice to his rights to recover such charge or other sum by suit, cut off the supply of electricity and for that purpose cut or disconnect any electric supply line. Before disconnection of a consumer s installation, the Licensee would serve a written notice of fifteen clear days. Effort should be made that before disconnecting a domestic connection; an adult member of the family should be informed. If the proof of removal of the cause for disconnection is produced to the satisfaction of the Licensee s employee deputed for the purpose, the supply shall not be disconnected. It is important to always pay your electricity bills in full & well in time. This will cause your account not to fall into arrears. Often consumers tend to pay a portion of the amount that is due, thinking that this will avoid a disconnection. This is not so. Moreover, if the arrears amount is not settled in the following month, this will increase the odds against being able to keep your account up to date. Please note that making part payments of your bills could still result in disconnection of supply. The licensees regularly carry out drives for recovery of dues against the bills which results in disconnections of supply of defaulting consumers. The licensee may disconnect the supply for following reasons: Non-payment of bills In case safety of the network is violated If there is an evidence of tampering, theft or unauthorised use of energy Expiry of the temporary connection contract Consumer wishes to disconnect the supply for personal reasons Page 22

21 5 CALCULATE YOUR ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION & BILL Page 23

22 A5: CALCULATE YOUR ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION & BILL 5.1 How the Tariff is determined? The Commission under the powers conferred upon it by the Electricity Act, 2003 and also in the previous legislations determines the tariff for the licensees as well as for various categories of the consumers. The tariff determination process is an open and transparent process. The licensees are required to file their Annual Revenue Requirement (ARR) based on the expenses required for generation/procurement of power, its transmission and distribution to the end user. The data submitted by the licensees are published through a public notice and the stakeholders are invited to submit their comments/suggestions. The Commission thereafter conducts public hearings in the matter and seeks the objections/suggestions from the stakeholders which include consumers or consumer related organizations. The Commission is also assisted by expert consultants in diligent/prudent scrutiny of the financial & technical data submitted by the licensees. After such prudent checks, the Commission carries out the act of balancing the requirement of the companies and the revenues that are to be received from different categories of consumers and determines the tariff. A conscious effort is made to balance the interest of consumers and the licensees. 5.2 How to check monthly energy consumption? Consumer can calculate approximate monthly consumption based on the connected load and usage hours. It is important to know how much the supplier is supposed to charge you per unit (kwh) of the electricity you consume. If you do not know, you can enquire from your distributor or you can visit the MPERC web site ( for information. To understand how much you have been charged that month you will need to refer slab wise charges and calculate total charges from your monthly consumption. For example Category Upto 30 >30 units units up to 50 Domestic Rs Rs Following table gives a fair indication of load of various equipments and the consumption vis-à-vis the usage time: Appliances Bulb Wattage Monthly consumption of electricity in units (KWH) One hour per day Six hours per day Duration for consumption of one unit by using the appliance hours Hours Hours 40 Minutes Hours Page 24

23 Appliances Wattage Monthly consumption of electricity in units (KWH) Duration for consumption of one unit by using the appliance. C.F.L. Fluorescent Tube Light 48" With copper choke With Electronic Choke Hours Hours 55 Minutes Hours Hours Hours 11 Minutes Hours 34 Minutes Night Lamp Hours 40 Minutes 36"/48" Hours Ceiling Fan 56" Hours 40 Minutes 60" Hours 17Minutes Table Fan 12"/16" Hours 13.5 to 2 Hours 13 Minutes to Domestic 450/ to 136 Electric Press 21 1 Hour 25 Minutes Dhobi Hour Immersion Rod Hour Capacity Geyser Lit Minutes Instant Minutes A.C. 1 Ton Minutes 1.5 Ton Minutes Air Cooler Hours 53 Minutes Refrigerator Small Units per day Big Units per day Toaster Hour 15 Minutes Hot Plate 1000/ to to Hour to 40 Minutes Electric Kettle 1000/ to to Hour to 30 Minutes Mixer - Juicer (Big) Hours 13 Minutes 9.75 to 3 Hours 5 Minutes to 5 325/ to 180 Washing Automatic 30 Hours Machine Semiautomatic Hours Vacuum Cleaner to 1 Hour 26 Minutes to 126 to Hour 20 Minutes Radio Hours 40 Minutes Tape Recorder Hours T.V. 60 to to to 16 Hours 40 Minutes to Hours 20 Minutes Video Hours Mosquito Repellant Hours Water Purifier Hours 10 Hours to 6 Hours to to to 27 Computer Minutes (Source: Publication by Bureau of Energy Efficiency, New Delhi) Page 25

24 Note: 1. Please note that the values of wattage ratings given in above table are given as a general guideline, however these ratings may differ for models of different makes. 2. Consumption of electricity can be measured on the basis of Kilowatt (KWH). One KWH is defined as one unit. Calculation of consumption in units can be worked out based on the Wattage rating of the machine multiplied by working hours and divided by One unit electricity is consumed for lighting a 1000 watt bulb for one hour which can be measured as 1 KWH hour (1 KWH = 1 Unit of electricity) 5.3 How to calculate your monthly bill You can calculate your electricity bill. See the following for Domestic, Non-domestic, Industrial and Agriculture category of LT consumers: How the bill is prepared? Madhya Pradesh Regulatory Commission has fixed the electricity Tariff on 29:03:2008 for the year You will now be receiving the bill as per the rates applicable from 15 th April Please refer the table shown below, as your bill will be prepared as per the rates mentioned in the table. A. DOMESTIC CATEGORY Slabs of monthly Fixed charges per month in rupees consumption Urban Area Rural Area Energy charges for all units consumed with no telescopic benefit (Rs per Unit) Minimum charges (Rs per connection per month) 0 to 30 units /- 31 to 50 units Rs 5/- per connection Rs 2/- per connection /- 51 to 100 units Rs 10/- per connection Rs 5/- per connection /- Rs 20/- per 1/2 KW of authorized load Rs 10/- per 1/2 KW of authorized load /- Above 100 units Temporary connection for construction of own house (max. up to one year), social/marriage purposes and religious Rs 40/- per 1/2 KW Rs 20/- per 1/2 KW function of authorized load of authorized load /- For Urban area 77 unit@ Rs 3.05 per unit For Rural area Rs 10/- per Rs 2/- per 38 Rs 2.70 Un-metered connections connection connection per unit NIL Through DTR meter Nil Page 26

25 B. NON-DOMESTIC CATEGORY Electricity Consumption For all Units consumed by Government Schools 0 0 For all Units consumed by other consumers 0 0 Demand based tariff for above 20 KW (Optional) Temporary Connection including multi-point temporary connections at LT for Mela* Fixed charges per month in Minimum charges Rupees Urban Area Rural Area Urban Rural Area Area Rs.150 per KW or Rs. 120 per KVA of billing demand per month Rs. 90 per KW or Rs. 72 per KVA of billing demand per month 360 unit / KW per year 360 unit / KW per year 360 units / KW or part thereof per year 360 units / KW or part thereof per year Energy charges Rs per unit 240 unit / KW per year unit / KW per year units / KW part thereof per year units / KW part Rs 75/- per KW Rs 45/- per KW thereof per year 6.42 Additional Fixed charge (Rs per machine per month) X-ray Plants Single Phase Rs 400 Three Phase Rs 600 * In case permission for organizing Mela is granted by Revenue Authorities of Govt. of MP. C. LT INDUSTRIAL (a) For Non-Seasonal Consumers: Consumer Category Fixed Charges (Rs. Per month) Per HP Energy Charges (Rs. Per kwh) For Urban Area For Rural Area (i) Upto 25 HP for LT Industries (ii) Demand based tariff up to 100 HP (iii) Demand based tariff (100 HP and above and upto 150 HP*) (only for existing consumers) Rs 132 per KVA or Rs 165 per KW of billing demand Rs 176 per KVA or Rs 220/- per KW of billing demand Rs 50 per KVA 4.10 or Rs 60 per KW of billing demand Rs 80 per KVA or Rs 100 per KW of billing demand 4.25 (iv) Temporary 1.5 times of applicable tariff. * In addition, these consumers are also liable to pay transformation losses at 3% and transformer rent as per the order for Miscellaneous and General Charges Page 27

26 (b) For Seasonal Consumers: (period of season shall not exceed 180 days continuously. If the declared season spreads over two tariff periods, then the tariff for the respective period shall be applicable.) Consumer Category Fixed Charges (Rs. Per month) Per HP Energy Charges (Rs. Per kwh) For Urban Area For Rural Area (i) During season Normal tariff as for Normal tariff as for Normal tariff as for non-seasonal non-seasonal non-seasonal (ii) During off-season Normal tariff as for Normal tariff as for 120% of normal non-seasonal non-seasonal tariff for nonseasonal consumers on 10% consumers on 10% consumers of contract demand of contract demand (or actual recorded (or actual recorded demand, whichever demand, whichever is more) is more) LT consumers having demand above 100 up to 150 HP contract demand, 3% transformation loss and transformer rent will be levied on rates fixed by the MPERC. (c) MINIMUM CONSUMPTION for both the above categories: LT industries in urban area will be charged an annual minimum of 360 units per HP and in rural area an annual minimum of 240 units per HP or its part thereof and deficit consumption (minimum consumption actual consumption) shall be charged at the prevailing rate of energy charges, at the end of the financial year. D. AGRICULTURAL PUMPS (i) For consumers with metered agriculture connections: Category Fixed charges (Rs. per KVA of billing demand) Energy charges (Paise per unit) For Agricultural Use First 300 unit per month NIL 220 Rest of the units in the month NIL 275 Temporary connection NIL 320 DTR metered consumers NIL 200 For other than Agricultural Use Up to 25 HP in urban areas Up to 25 HP in notified rural areas Above 25 HP and up to 100 HP in urban areas Rs. 120 per kva or Rs. 150 Per kw of billing demand 410 Above 25 HP and up to 100 HP in notified rural areas Rs. 50 per kva or Rs. 60 per kw per month of billing demand 410 Page 28

27 (ii) For un-metered connections Category Assessment of un-metered consumption to be billed on energy rates applicable for metered consumers given in above table RURAL AREA Permanent 100 unit per HP / per month Temporary 130 unit per HP / per month URBAN AREA Permanent 130 unit per HP / per month Temporary 150 unit per HP / per month (iii) Annual minimum consumption for metered consumers: 180 units per HP or part thereof. (iv) Incentives for installation of energy saving devices subject to satisfaction of licensee (i) Installation of Pump sets with ISI motor (ii) Installation of pump sets with ISI motor with PVC pipes & foot valve. (iii) Installation of pump sets with ISI motor with PVC pipes & foot valve and capacitor 15 paisa per units 30 paisa per units 45 paisa per units E. GENERAL NOTE FOR ALL CATEGORIES: Other than the charges specified in foregoing tables for various categories, consumers are also liable to pay the following charges: 1) Electricity Duty (Fixed by the State Government) 2) Energy development surcharge ( CESS) (Fixed by the State Government) 3) Meter rent (Fixed by MPERC) 4) Surcharge on delayed payment; other charges like welding surcharge, capacitor surcharge etc. wherever applicable. 5) Please see booklet on tariff order for full details of various terms and conditions. 5.4 Ready Reckoner for Domestic Consumption ( ) Sl. No. Consumption in kwh per Month Energy Charges Fixed Charges (Urban) Fixed Charges (Rural) Electricity Duty Energy Development Cess *Total Bill Amount (Urban) *Total Bill Amount (Rural) * In addition to the above, meter 5 rupees for single phase meter and 12 rupees for three phase meter is payable. Page 29

28 5.5 How to reduce your electricity bill and conserve energy? We all know Electricity as a means to save ourselves from the effect of heat during summer. With proper use of efficient appliances, we may reduce our electricity bills by reducing demand of electricity. In this direction, the Commission has advised the Distribution companies to ascertain use of Energy Efficient Appliances in their Headquarters. In the wider interest of consumers and for their general information, following measures are suggested, which will enable the consumers not only to reduce their electricity bills, but to help in conserving the precious energy thereby the State in controlling the electricity demand. WHAT TO DO Lighting & Fans As far as possible, use work oriented lighting while reading. Use reading lamps, which will give you focused light and will not illuminate the room. Use energy efficient tubes or Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) which save you up to 70% of electricity. As compared to ordinary Bulb, the CFL gives you 8 times the illumination. One 15 Watt CFL illuminates equivalent to a 60 Watt Bulb. Use electronic Choke in place of an ordinary Choke. Remove the dust particles deposited on the Bulbs and Tube rods from time to time. The dust particles reduce the intensity of light. As far as possible make use of Sunlight and use lighter shades of paints on the walls. Use Energy-Smart Fans in rooms where these are required to be run continuously. Use Electronic Regulators for fans. WHAT NOT TO DO Keeping the switch ON when there is no requirement of electricity. Using ordinary filament Bulbs, especially in places like lobby/passage/toilet. Please note that in the ordinary filament Bulbs, 90% of energy is wasted towards heat and only 10% used for illumination. Using old Regulators in Fans. Using non ISI low quality appliances. Always keeping the lights and fans ON while going out of the room. Page 30

29 Refrigerators WHAT TO DO WHAT NOT TO DO The motors and compressors of the Refrigerators emit continuous heat; therefore, keep provision for continuous flow of air around. The distance between the Refrigerator and wall should be at least 30 cms. Before opening the door of the Refrigerator, keep in mind all the articles required to be taken out for use. This will enable you to keep its door open for a minimum period & reduce consumption Carry out the regular check for leakages in the Refrigerator and ensure that the Rubber seal of the Refrigerator is absolutely clean and tight. If a piece of paper is kept between the seal and the body of the Refrigerator and if it does not come out on pulling, then the seal is OK. If it comes out on pulling, change the seal immediately. Keep the thermostat of the Refrigerator on minimum setting. Always use Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) labelled Star Rated Refrigerators. Air Conditioner (AC) As far as possible, make use of ceiling fan or table fan or cooler for protection from heat because with the use of fan, consumption of electricity is worth 30 paise per hour, with that of cooler it is worth Rs per hour whereas with the use of Air Conditioners it is worth Rs per hour. A high quality Air Conditioner cools your room just in 30 minutes. Please make use of the timer and keep the Air Conditioner off for some time. If the Air Conditioner has become too old and needs frequent repairs, it is better to purchase a new Air Conditioner. Always use Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Star Rated Labelled Air Conditioners. Keeping Refrigerators very close to the wall. Allowing dust particles to accumulate on the Refrigerator condenser. Please note that the efficiency of the motors is reduced due to accumulation of dust on condenser which in turn enhances electricity consumption. Not defrosting the Freezer regularly. Please note that the Ice deposited on the freezer of manual Defrost Refrigerator through insulation on the coil reduces its power of cooling the articles, thereby enhancing the consumption of electricity. Keeping hot articles and food items directly in the Refrigerator, thereby wasting the energy. Opening the door of the Refrigerator very frequently. Adjustment of Temperature of Air Conditioner below 27º C. Keep in mind that the electricity could be saved to the extent of 3 to 5 % per degree Centigrade fall in temperature. Keeping the doors and windows of the room open when Air Conditioner is being used. Never cleaning the filters of the Air Conditioner. Page 31

30 6 THEFT OF ELECTRICITY Hon ble Prime Minister, Shri Manmohan Singh commented that Electricity Theft is the cancer of the power sector. We need to come down on it heavily as it is seriously affecting the financial viability of the sector as a whole and the effect on our economy may well prove disastrous. Page 32

31 A6: THEFT OF ELECTRICITY 6.1 How as a consumer you are affected? The theft of electricity is a menace that needs to be eradicated, if the electricity distribution industry is to remain sustainable and viable. Why? Because: It is not safe: In the majority of cases illegal connections are dangerous as cables are often exposed and could result in a loss of precious human life. It stalls electrification: Commercial losses in distribution are very high. This causes loss of income which means less money going to the electrification programme. This means that people without electricity will have to wait a while longer to have their areas electrified. It reflects in poor maintenance: Reduction in income on account of high commercial losses means less availability of funds for maintenance of lines and sub-stations resulting in poor quality of supply. It affects the price of electricity: Loss of income from loss of sales means that this shortfall has to be recovered somewhere. This implies an increase in the tariff. And who is ultimately affected? Consumers who pay for their electricity as these losses are factored in tariff increases. It affects quality of supply: Illegal connections affect the quality of supply in the area which often includes the following: i. Interruptions: Illegal connections often tend to overload the system thereby causing tripping which result in power interruptions. The overload could even affect neighboring areas. Loose & un-standard wiring used for illegal hooking often results in tripping of supply because of short-circuit faults. ii. Low voltages: The overload could also result in low voltages which could damage appliances of neighboring consumers. These consumers would have no way to seek recourse to the supplier, as these problems did not result from his side of the network or negligence from his part. It is unfair: It is not fair to the consumers who pay honestly for the electricity they consume. Page 33

32 It is illegal: Theft of electricity is a cognizable and non-bailable offence. Consuming electricity without being officially connected to the supply point or without being registered as a consumer of electricity or using for purpose other than for which it is authorized or meter tampering/ bypassing for illegal abstraction of energy is illegal and punishable. It results in loss of revenue: The Distribution Companies need to get their money s worth from the electricity bought from generators of electricity. Ultimately honest & Income from electricity sales boosts the viability and helps the paying consumers pay Distribution Companies to stay in the electricity charges of business and cater to needs of all. Theft of electricity, therefore, poses the electricity thieves. a threat to providing future generations with electricity. 6.2 What are the legal provisions? Salient Provisions under the Electricity Act, 2003 i. The Electricity Act, 2003 provides in Section 135 that who ever dishonestly abstracts or consumes or uses electricity shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine or with both. ii. The Officer authorized in this behalf by the State Government may enter, inspect, break open and search any place or premises and cease and remove all such device, instruments, wires and any other facilitator or article used for unauthorized use of electricity. He may examine or seize any books of accounts or documents. Salient Provisions under the Electricity (Amendment) Act, 2007 i. An amendment has been made to Section 135 that use of electricity for the purpose other than for which the use of electricity was authorized shall be treated as dishonest use of electricity. ii. The licensee may, upon detection of such theft of electricity, immediately disconnect the supply of electricity. Page 34

33 iii. iv. The Officer of the licensee shall lodge a complaint in writing in Police Station within 24 hours from the time of such disconnection. The Appropriate Court may also take cognizance of an Offence punishable under this Act upon a report of Police Officer filed under Section 173 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, v. The Offence punishable under Sections 135 to 140 or Section 150 shall be cognizable and non-bailable. Regulations issued by the Commission for method of assessment of charges in case of theft of electricity. i. The Commission has issued Regulations, in accordance with rules notified by MoP, GoI, under Supply Code prescribing method for assessment of charges in case of theft of electricity. ii. These Regulations provide:- 1. Billing at twice the rate as per applicable tariff for entire duration of theft. If such duration cannot be ascertained then it shall be limited to twelve months preceding the date of inspection. 2. No. of working days to be considered per month for different categories of consumers. 3. Supply hours per day to be taken for assessment of consumption for different categories of consumers. 4. Load factor to be taken for assessment of consumption for different categories of consumers. 5. Formula for assessment of consumption. 6. Disconnection of supply/removal of line/cable/plant or equipments. 7. Reconnection of supply on payment of charges, levy of interest for delay in payment etc. 6.3 HELP YOUR SUPPLIER TO SERVE YOU BETTER Advise those who indulge in illegal use about the implications they may face. Advise them on how to apply for a connection. Page 35

34 Inform your neighbors - perhaps they might advise how best to deal with the matter. Raise the matter in your community/civic structures. Refer the matter to your Consumer Communication Forum. Notify your Distribution Companies immediately if you know that someone is stealing electricity. 6.4 Remember: As a consumer of electricity you have the obligation to pay for the services received. Theft of electricity affects all consumers not only in your area but in other areas as well, as it has a ripple effect. Page 36

35 7 Electrical Safety Human Life is precious. Unsafe usage of electricity poses hazards to Human life. While the electricity improves the quality of life, its safe use is of utmost importance. Page 37

36 A7: ELECTRICAL SAFETY 7.1 Human life is precious. Safe use of electrical appliance, use of standard and good quality electrical appliances is essential to avoid hazards of electricity. Following are some tips for observing safety in usage of electricity: Domestic Consumers Do s Use standard pins to tap supply from plug points. Don ts Avoid tapping of supply by inserting bare wires. Always use wires / cables / switches with ISI marks and of approved quality. Don t use lamp brackets to tie wires or ropes to dry clothes. Used bulbs should be replaced only after the switch is off. Changing the fused bulbs when the switch is ON is dangerous. Keep all lamp holders with lamp. Don't keep the lamp holders without lamp. Always use properly earthed 3 in plugs to connect refrigerators, wet grinders, mixies, washing machine, iron boxes and geysers etc. Don't connect mixies, refrigerators, wet grinders, washing machines, iron boxes and geysers through unearthed plug pins which may cause serious accidents. Always buy/use electrical appliances / equipments with ISI mark and strictly follow the instruction manual. Don't purchase sub-standard electrical fittings to save money which may result in serious accident. Use the appropriate MCB to limit the load Don t tie an electric switch or appliance when your hands are wet or bleeding from a cut. Install an ELCB / RCCB to avoid fatal shock Do not lay the under ground cables and garden lighting/gate lighting cables openly. Always lay them in Hume pipes and clearly mark the cable route. Always provide appropriate rated fuse. Do not use 2 pin plug and socket. Always ensure that the plug / socket are not within the reach of children. Do not use broken switches, plugs and sockets. Frequently water the earth electrode to maintain the least soil resistivity. Do not combine the neutral and body earth leads. Always have separate and distinct neutral wire and body earth. Page 38

37 Do s Periodically check the earth resistance and the earth lead for its earth continuity. Seek expert's advice from an electrical engineer for safe design and location of electrical equipments. Don ts Do not use water heater, geysers, electric iron etc., without earthing connection. Do not allow lay man to handle the electrical system and appliances. Get the electrical work done only by a Govt. Licensed electrical contractor. Do not operate the electric equipment / switches with wet hand. Always get certified electrician for repair and checking. Do not use open heating coil for heating water. Use rubber gloves when working on electrical equipments. Do not use open wires / joint wires for appliances. Use rubber mats while working on electrical appliances. Do not extend loose wiring / open wiring from junction points / plug points. Use fully insulated tools while handling electric wires and equipment. Do not overload a plug. Cover bare portion of electrical connections with a good quality insulation. Do not overload an electric system by additional or unauthorized load. Always ensure that a matching plug and socket is used to avoid loose contact and consequent heating and melting. Do not touch a person who is in contact with the electric supply, with bare hands. Clean the contact surface of the plug and socket of the electrical heater. Replace the socket every 2 to 3 years. Do not climb electric poles / transmission towers. Report electrical accidents to Distribution Company, Police and Electrical Inspector. Do not lean on electric poles. Report slanting poles, inadequate ground clearance etc. to the Distribution Company. Do not handle storm-guy wire. Stay away from snapped electric wires & report to the Distribution Company immediately. Do not build house / extension of houses underneath overhead lines / in the proximity of lines. Page 39

38 Do s Report the leakage of current in the installation to the concerned DISCOMs office. Don ts Do not have balconies / windows towards bare power line. Always use simmer-stat and thermostat for heater and boiler respectively. Always switch off the supply when some repair work is to be done.. Do not grow trees underneath the overhead lines. Do not use G.I wire to electric poles for drying clothes. Periodically cleaning of and greasing the appliances like fan etc. can be done by the consumer, only after detaching the appliance from the main supply or switching off the main supply. Do not carry appliances like fan, heater, iron etc. from place to place, when it remains connected to the 'ON' supply. The strain, on the trailing wires, would disconnect one of the wires in the plug, which would prove hazardous. Ensure separate earth electrode for the installation and the meter. Do not carry long metallic pipes / objects underneath overhead lines Do not fly kites nearby overhead lines Do not touch snapped electrical wire Do not effect a patch up in the broken filament and re-use the bulb. This leads to local heating of glass bulb and is liable to explode Do not use wires, having too many joints, while connecting electrical appliance to the supply through a plug. In case of pukka wiring insist on 'Looping' system Do not use bits of clothing for wire joints, use a good insulation tape Do not tie animals to electric poles Do not trail loose wires along a wet floor Do not depend on the switch provided in the body of appliances but provide a separate switch control for the plug Do not leave an electric iron 'SWITCHED ON' after the iron gets sufficiently hot. (Iron without thermostat) ---- Do not bake 'Pappads' on an electric heater. The fingers may come in contact with live wires of the heater as this would be hazardous. Page 40

39 Do s Don ts ---- Do not forget to switch off the supply, before removing a vessel from the heater. Switch ON the supply, after keeping the vessel on the heater Do not stack rice, cotton bags, or hay, high enough to rub against wired portions of your installations. This practice leads to the deterioration of insulation due to constant abrasions Do not meddle with a Radio / TV, when the set is 'ON'. If cleaning is to be done, disconnect the equipment from the supply Do not allow children to twiddle the controls of electrical appliances or otherwise meddle with electrical appliances. Do no electrify fences Do not fly kites near electric lines Do not take overloading vehicles beneath electric lines Do not construct building beneath electric lines Page 41

40 Commercial Consumers Do's All wiring works should be done through licensed wiring contractors. Don ts Do not travel on vehicles laden with goods beyond the permissible height. This may cause fatal accidents due to contact with overhead electrical wires. Don t tie advertisements boards, flags etc. to electric posts. Do not draw wires/cables for the full cross-section of the conduits. Always use only 50% of the cross-section Do not bring water pipes and electric conduits in the proximity of each other. ENSURE SAFE WORKING Page 42