Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020: Norms bring in compensation mechanism

This is because the provisions make distribution companies more accountable to consumers.

No increase in power tariff, says power regulatory panel

the Speaker said the state government must extend this relief to everyone by reducing the tariff, which in Punjab is among the highest in the country. (Representational image)

Written by: Prabha Raghavan

2 min readNew DelhiDec 23, 2020 03:02 AM IST First published on: Dec 23, 2020 at 03:02 AM IST

The government on Monday notified the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020. These rules serve to “empower” consumers with rights that would allow them to access continuous supply of quality, reliable electricity. This is because the provisions make distribution companies more accountable to consumers.

The rules cover 11 key areas of power supply to consumers in the country, including obligations of distribution licensees, metering arrangements, release of new connections and modifications of existing connections and grievance redressal and compensation mechanisms. However, there are certain exceptions to these rules, especially where use for agricultural purposes is concerned.

Effect on consumers

Now, as per law, states will have to implement these rules and discoms will be held more accountable for issues like delays in providing and renewing connections of electricity. They are also obligated to provide round-the-clock electricity to consumers, as per the Ministry of Power.