In a further relaxation, JERC has approved removal of monthly minimum charges (MMC) for all categories, except for those houses or flats that remain close for a period more than three months or power load more than 10KW per month will be charged Rs 1000 MMC.
However, it has directed the State Electricity Department (ED) to convert all such connections which remain closed for three or more months to prepaid. In this regard ED has been asked to prepare a detailed road map along with financial implications by June 30.
“The Commission accepts the submission of the petitioner and the consumers having connected load of less than or equal to10 kW shall be exempted from the MMC and only the notified tariff will be applicable to these consumers,” JERC said.
The Commission is, however, concerned about the revenue loss to the ED especially in case of premises which use the distribution infrastructure but have very less consumption and remain locked for a considerable period. The proportionate share of expenses (namely billing, collection, infrastructure maintenance) being borne by the utility is more than the average revenue from these connections.
The Commission is of the view that these consumers are required to be converted to prepaid connections.
