CERC Amends Indian Electricity Grid Code Rules

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) recently issued amendments to the Indian Electricity Grid Code, originally released in 2023. These adjustments address various aspects of grid operation, including timeframes for power injection, scheduling of generation, compensation mechanisms, and revisions in scheduling flexibility.

One amendment specifies limits on the injection of infirm power, or power generated before commercial operation. For all power generating stations (excluding specific hydro and storage projects), this injection cannot exceed one year from synchronization. For renewable energy and energy storage systems, the limit is 45 days from initial energization. However, extensions up to three months can be granted by the Regional Load Dispatch Center (RLDC) with an advance application. Additional extensions beyond three months require CERC approval.

Another amendment modifies scheduling for generation units by changing the timing of commercial operation start. Once a station declares its commercial operation date, scheduling will begin at midnight on D+2 (two days after the declaration date) or on the declared date itself, whichever comes later.

CERC has also clarified compensation structures for part-load operations, especially for thermal power plants with tariffs determined under the Electricity Act. Plants with Section 63 tariffs will be compensated as per contractual terms or, if unspecified, by mechanisms from previous regulations. Plants under Section 62 tariffs will receive compensation following applicable tariff regulations.

Additional provisions were made for minimum load scheduling. If a plant’s schedule falls below its minimum load during off-peak hours but rises above it during peak hours, adjustments may be made to maintain the minimum load level. A new scheduling process has been introduced to support this adjustment, with specified cost-sharing methods based on the energy charge difference between units. Moreover, if necessary, RLDCs can adjust declared capacities up to a set monthly limit to accommodate technical changes, while gas, lignite, and hydro plants may have additional flexibility.

These amendments to the grid code enhance grid operation flexibility, provide clearer timelines for different types of power generation, and establish procedures for part-load compensation. They aim to support a more reliable and consistent grid operation across India.