Amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code

© GOVERNMENT OF TAMIL NADU

2023

[Regd. No. TN/CCN/467/2012-14.

[R. Dis. No. 197/2009.

[Price: Rs. 27.20 Paise.

No. 335] CHENNAI, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 Aavani 22, Sobakiruthu, Thiruvalluvar Aandu-2054

Part VI—Section 2

Notifications or Orders of interest to a section of the public

issued by Heads of Departments, etc.

NOTIFICATIONS BY HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS, ETC.

TAMIL NADU ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION

Amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code

[Notification No. TNERC/SC/7- 48, dated 02.09.2023]

No.VI(2)/(16d-1)/2023

WHEREAS the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission specified the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code under section 50 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (Central Act 36 of 2003) and notified the same in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, dated the 1st September 2004, and subsequent amendments notified thereafter.

AND WHEREAS, it is considered necessary to issue further certain amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code and such amendments shall be subject to the condition of previous publication and accordingly undergone previous publication.

NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred on it by Section 181 read with Section 50 of the Electricity Act, 2003 and all other powers enabling it in this behalf, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission hereby makes the following amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code, namely.-

Amendments

In the said Regulations,-

1a. In Regulation 2, after clause (s), the following clause shall be inserted, namely: -

"(t) "Unauthorised use of electricity" has the same meaning as assigned to it under section 126 of the Act. The

unauthorised use of electricity dealt under section 135 of the Act is applicable only to the theft of energy / illegal restoration

of supply."

1b. In Regulation 2, at the end, the existing expression shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"Words and expressions used in this Code but not defined either in this Code or the Act or the Electricity (Rights of

Consumer Rules), 2020 or any other Regulations of the Commission or the General Clauses Act, 1897 (Central Act 10 of

1897) shall have the same meanings as commonly understood in the Engineering and Commercial parlance."

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VI-2 Ex. (335)2 TAMIL NADU GOVERNMENT GAZETTE EXTRAORDINARY

2. In Regulation 3, in sub-regulation (3), the term 'extra' shall be omitted:-

3. In Regulation 4, in sub-regulation (2), after clause (xvi), the following shall be inserted, namely: -

"(xvii) Charges for periodical inspection for installation testing other than routine inspections like mass raid etc.,

(xviii) Charges for temporary disconnection at the request of consumer.

(xix) Charges for furnishing certified copies to the consumer"

4. In Regulation 5, the existing sub-regulation (2) shall be substituted with the following, namely: -

"(2) Excess demand charge:

Whenever the consumer exceeds the sanctioned demand, excess demand charge shall be:—

(i) In the case of HT supply, the maximum demand charges for any month shall be based on the kVA demand

recorded in that month or such percentage of sanctioned demand as may be declared by the Commission from

time to time whichever is higher. The exceeded demand shall alone be charged at double the normal rate.

(ii) In case of LT supply,

(a) The excess demand charges shall be applicable to the consumers other than domestic and agricultural

categories.

(b) The demand recorded in services of domestic category shall be assessed during regular assessment. In

case the recorded demand exceeds the sanctioned demand for the third time within a period of 12 months

preceding the date of regular assessment of any billing cycle, the same shall be regularized as specified in

the following explanation.

(c) For all services covered under the scope of regulation of excess demand, the Licensee shall install meters

with demand recording facility. No excess demand charge is leviable till such time the Licensee installs meter

with demand recording facility.

(d) The excess demand charges to the applicable category of consumers shall be at the rate of percentage of

'total energy charges' for every kW or part thereof over and above the sanctioned demand, as tabulated

below:

Explanation:

1. 'Total energy charges' means the total charges of electricity supplied which includes both fixed / demand

charges and energy charges.

2. The first, second, third and consequent occurrences specified in the above table mean the occurrences within a

period of 12 months preceding the date of regular assessment of any billing cycle. Counting of occurrences shall

begin only from the first occurrence that has taken place within the said period of twelve months irrespective of

number of recurrences happened in the past before the commencement of this period.

3. The Licensee shall issue a notice to the consumer pursuant to the first and second occurrences of excess

demand over and above the sanctioned demand, advising the consumer to control the recorded demand within

the sanctioned demand. The notice shall also contain the entire terms and conditions of this sub-regulation to

create awareness to the consumer and to sensitize him to take remedial measures in time.

4. The consumer shall take timely remedial measures to control the recorded demand within the sanctioned

demand and avoid recurrence.

5. On third occurrence, besides billing excess demand charges, the existing sanctioned demand shall be revised

to the level of recorded demand during the third occurrence rounding off to next kW.

In case of domestic consumers, the excess demand charge is not applicable for any occurrence. However, on

third occurrence, the existing sanctioned demand shall be revised to the level of recorded demand during the

third occurrence rounding off to next kW.

For all the above cases, the development charges pertaining to the quantum of demand exceeded during third

occurrence and regularized as above rounding off to next kW shall be included in the next bill with an intimation

to the consumer with details of excess demand charges billed, regularization of demand to the level of recorded

demand and the development charges payable.

6. The infrastructural development required if any pursuant to the regularization of excess demand shall be carried

out by Licensee.

7. Only the development charges in force at the time of third occurrence of excess demand shall be payable.

8. If the recorded demand exceeds 150kW for the third time in the period of twelve months, the Licensee besides

collecting excess demand charges shall issue 'one month notice' to the consumer for conversion of LT service

into HT service connection indicating all relevant charges to be paid for the level of maximum recorded demand

during third occurrence.

9. The sanctioned demand shall be re-fixed to the level of 150kW until conversion of HT service connection. All

further occurrences after the third occurrence will be counted cumulatively irrespective of number of further

blocks of 12 months period. Accordingly, the excess demand charges of 10% to the level of exceeding 150kW

on each occurrence after the third occurrence shall be payable until the HT service is availed.

10. In all services which are newly to be brought under the scope of this sub-regulation, the relevant provisions

are applicable only after the date of notification of this order or the date of installation of meter with demand

recording facility, whichever is later.

11. For the cases where the recorded demand had exceeded the sanctioned demand in the past, prior to this

notification and settled back within the level of originally sanctioned demand for a continuous period of twelve

months as on the date of this notification but remaining unregularised, may be allowed to continue with the

original sanctioned demand.

(iii) In case of temporary supply, the excess demand charges for HT / LT supply shall be as specified in clause

(i) and (ii) of this sub-regulation as the case may be.

(iv) No addition or reduction of demand in any category of service shall be sanctioned unless the outstanding

dues in the same service connection and other service connections of the same consumer had been paid.

(v) In all the above cases, the cost of any modifications in the equipment / line / metering system which may arise

due to addition / reduction / regularization of demand shall be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of

the Act and Codes / Regulations made thereon."

5. In regulation 5, in sub-regulation (5), the existing clause (v) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(v) Where, on review, the amount of Security Deposit held is found to be in excess of the requirement, the excess

shall be adjusted against two future demands for the electricity supplied. Where, after such adjustment in future two

demands, there is balance to be refunded, the refund shall be made by cheque or direct credit to the account of consumer

under advice to him, if bank account details are provided, before the due date for payment of the third demand. No other

documents are required. Where a request is made by the consumer to adjust the excess Security Deposit above two future

demands, the Distribution Licensee shall adhere to such requests."

6(a) In clause (vii)(a) of sub-regulation(5) of Regulation 5, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted

with the expression "Appendix-III".

6(b) In clause (vii)(b) of sub-regulation(5) of Regulation 5, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted

with the expression "Appendix-III".

6(c) In clause (vii)(c) of sub-regulation(5) of Regulation 5, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted

with the expression "Appendix-III".

7. In regulation 5, the sub-regulation (12) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(12) Application Registration Charges:

The Licensee shall collect application registration charges from the applicants for the following, at the rates specified

by the Commission from time to time.

(a) Application for new HT / LT services.

(b) Application for addition/reduction of demand/load in respect of HT and LT Services.

(c) Application for temporary service.

(d) Application for conversion of a service from LT to HT and vice versa.

(e) Application for shifting of HT / LT services under Deposit Contribution Works basis.

(f) Application for shifting of HT / LT lines/ structures/ equipment under Deposit Contribution Works basis.

(g) Application for change of tariff.

(h) Application for repair or replacement of Licensee's properties damaged due to dashing of vehicles etc., by the

third parties chargeable under Deposit Contribution Works basis."

8. In regulation 7, the sub-regulations (1), (2), (3) & (3A) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(1) No new service connection shall be given without meter. For all new LT service connections, the Licensee shall

install meters with demand recording facility.

(2) At the time of seeking a new connection / temporary service connection, the applicant shall have the option either

to purchase a meter on his own as per prescribed standards, specifications and relevant Regulations or require that meter

to be supplied by the Distribution Licensee. Unless the consumer elects to purchase his own meter, the Licensee shall

provide meters complying statutory standards and relevant Regulations and may require the consumer to give adequate

security for the price of the meter and pay the hire charges there for wherever applicable. Where the consumer elects to

purchase his own meter, the Licensee shall ensure that such meter complies with relevant standards, specifications and

Regulation.

The meters required shall be tested by the Licensee at manufacturer's site and sealed duly recording their serial

numbers. Such tested meters of respective serial numbers shall be made available in the open market. The details of

serial numbers, make, capacity and vendor details shall be displayed in the Licensee's web-portal for information of

consumers. Sufficient quantity of meters of all categories shall be made available in the market all the time. The meters so

purchased from the market need not be tested again after procurement by the applicant and can be fixed in the installation

straightaway.

A tracking and recording software for all new seals shall be provided by the manufacturer of the meter so as to track total

movement of seals starting from manufacturing, procurement, storage, record keeping, installation, series of inspections,

removal and disposal. Only the patented seals (seal form the manufacturer who has official right to manufacture the seal)

shall be used. The consumer shall claim the meter purchased by him as his asset only after it is permanently removed from

the system of the Licensee.

The Licensee shall publish and keep on updating on their web-portal about type, single phase / three phase capacity

rating with respect to demand applied, specification along with the list of approved meter manufacturers and information

of the places from where the consumers can purchase those meters. It shall cover all categories of LT, LT CT, HT ,

Bidirectional metering, solar generation, pre paid metering, ToD metering etc., on a permanent basis without any restriction

in terms of period of duration for purchase, quantity of meters to be purchased by a division / circle etc.,

(3) The Licensee shall endeavor to provide smart pre-payment meter or pre-payment meter in a phased manner giving

priority to services of higher consumption / revenue. All Central / State Govt. and local body services shall be provided

with smart meters with facility of pre-payment mode. In areas which do not have communication network, pre payment

meters shall be provided. For temporary supply, pre-payment meters (Rechargeable card Model) shall be provided.

The pre-payment meter shall comply with relevant standards, specifications and Regulations. For pre-payment meter,

payment of Security Deposit is not required.

(3A) In case of open access consumer, the Interface meters with facilities to record export and import of energy and

other parameters depending upon tariff requirement shall be provided both at the generator and consumer ends and other

required locations. The meters shall comply with relevant standards and specifications in accordance with the Central

Electricity Authority (Installation and Operation of Meters) Regulations, 2006, as amended from time to time."

9. In regulation 7, in sub-regulation (7), the existing clause (ii) shall be substituted with the following, namely: -

"(ii) when the above formula is made applicable for the LT services of more than 112kW in accordance with sub-

Regulation 3(1)(b) of this Code or the capacity of the feeding transformer is more than capacity required to feed

the contracted demand of the individual consumer, the kVA rating of the transformer represented as 'C' in the

above formula shall be limited to the lower capacity of the transformer of available rating being used by the

Licensee which is actually required to meet the quantum of contract demand of the individual consumer.

The transformer loss arrived as above, shall be added to the energy consumption, even when the recorded energy

consumption is nil."

10. In regulation 7, the existing sub-regulation (9) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(9) If a consumer considers that the meter is defective or meter readings not being commensurate with his

consumption of electricity, he may apply to the Licensee to get his meter tested at Licensees' lab. The test shall be carried

out by Licensee within 30 days and the cost of such a test shall be borne by the Licensee or the consumer according to the

result of such test as to whether the meter is defective or correct.

The Distribution Licensee shall convey the date and time for such test to the consumer for his presence during testing. After testing, the Licensee shall give a copy of test report to the consumer duly signed by both the Licensee and the consumer, and retain one copy as acknowledgment. However, if the consumer opts not to be present at the site for testing, the Distribution Licensee shall carry out such testing and send copy of the report to the consumer. If the consumer disputes the results of such testing and demands re-testing by third party by accepting to bear the charges for such test, the Licensee shall arrange the testing at third party testing laboratories accredited by NABL from the list of third party testing agencies approved by the Commission. If it is established that the errors are beyond the specified limits and contrary to the results of the test performed by the Distribution Licensee, the costs of carrying out the tests both by the Distribution Licensee and that of the third-party testing laboratories shall be reimbursed by the Distribution Licensee. However in case it is established that the results of the test are the same as the results of the test performed by the Distribution Licensee, the cost of carrying out such test shall stand to be borne by the consumer. The meter data and test results shall be issued to the consumer and said results are final and binding on both the consumer and Distribution Licensee.

The approved list of third party agencies approved by the Commission shall be available in various offices and the

website of the Distribution Licensee."

11. In regulation 7, the existing sub-regulation (10) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(10) The procedure to be followed for replacement of defective/ damaged/ burnt meter shall be as follows:

(i) It is the responsibility of the Licensee to replace all defective meters belonging to the Licensee at his cost. The

meter with defects such as stoppage of recording, stoppage of display, damage to seal, burning or damage to

meter etc either on consumers complaint or upon inspection by the Distribution Licensee shall be replaced within

the duration as specified by the Commission and restore supply through a new meter. The released defective

meter shall be tested within 30 days in Licensee's laboratories. Wherever feasible, the data shall be downloaded.

The records of all defective meters shall be accompanied with allied documentation of such test results. The

important data downloaded such as meter reading and other data relevant to billing shall be documented. No

defective meter shall be handed over to stores without testing in Licensee's laboratories.

(ii) Since the safe custody of the meter is the consumer's responsibility, replacement of meter due to damages shall

be at the cost of consumer.

(iii) The cost of replacement for burnt meter shall be met by the Licensee unless it is proved otherwise that the

burning out is due to the fault of the consumer.

If after investigation, it is found that the meter has become defective or burnt due to reasons attributable to the

consumer, the cost of new meter and other applicable charges shall be recovered from the consumer through subsequent

bills. No fee shall be charged from the consumer at the time of reporting by consumer or being noticed by Licensee that

the meter is defective or burnt.

Besides the said charges for replacement of defective/ burnt meter, necessary bill revision for the period of defect or

inaccurate recording of consumption , shall be made as per provisions of this Code and the excess or deficit charges shall

be adjusted in the subsequent bills with due intimation to the consumer in writing along with test results and working sheet.

Sufficient rolling stock of meter shall be maintained in every section offices of the Licensee for timely replacement of

defective meters.

(iv) When the meter is owned by the consumer and becomes defective / damaged or burnt due to the fault of the

consumer, it is the responsibility of the consumer to replace the meter by a healthy one, if he elects to continue

to have his own meter. Otherwise the Licensee shall replace the meter, collect the specified deposits/ applicable

Charges from the consumer."

12. In regulation 7, after sub-regulation (10), the following sub-regulation shall be inserted, namely:-

"(11) In case of single phase meters, the consumer shall ensure there is no common neutral or phase or looping of

neutral or phase of two or more consumers on consumer side wiring. If such common neutral or phase or looping of neutral

or phase comes to the notice of the Licensee or if the earth leakage indication is displayed in the meter, the Licensee shall

inform the consumer in writing advising him to rectify the defect to ensure proper recording of consumption."

13. In regulation 8, after sub-regulation (2), the following sub-regulation (3) shall be inserted, namely: -

"(3) The meter shall be read at least once in every billing cycle in urban as well as rural areas by an authorized

representative of the Distribution Licensee. Services of all status such as existing services, newly released services

during previous billing cycle, service remaining under disconnection etc., shall be covered in the regular assessment of

such periodicity. In case of smart meters, the meters shall be read remotely at least once in every billing cycle and in case

of other pre-payment meters; the meters shall be read by an authorized representative of the Distribution Licensee at least

once in every three months. The data regarding remote assessment and billing shall be made available to the consumer,

through website or mobile App or SMS, etc. Consumers having smart pre-payment meters may also be given the data

access for checking their consumption."

14. In regulation 8, the existing sub-regulation (4), shall be omitted.

15. In regulation 8, the existing sub-regulation (5), shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"In case of LT services, after taking the meter readings, the particulars of meter readings, energy consumption and

charges payable shall be incorporated in the consumer meter card.

Wherever the particulars of meter readings, energy consumption, charges payable and last date for payment

etc., are sent to the consumer through SMS and Mail to the registered mobile number and e-mail id respectively, such

communication shall also be construed as Bill-cum-Notice in relation to the provisions contained under Regulations 8, 13

and 14 of this Code.

The intimation of disconnection for any reason shall also be communicated to the consumer through SMS with details

of disconnection such as date, final reading, reason for disconnection etc."

16. In regulation 8, the existing sub-regulation (6), shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(6) Procedure of generation and issue of billing:

(a) Payment for energy supplied shall be made by the consumer according to the meter readings referred to above

and on delivery of a bill there for in the case of High Tension consumers and incorporation of current consumption charges

in the consumer meter card in the case of Low Tension consumers. In case of pre-payment metering, the Distribution

Licensee shall issue the bill to the consumer on his request.

Pre-payment meters shall be designed to automatically cut off supply when the amount credited is exhausted. This

shall however not be treated as a disconnection and the supply will be resumed whenever the meter is recharged.

(b) The Distribution Licensee shall intimate the consumer about despatch of bill through SMS / mail, immediately

after the despatch in case of HT services and within a period of not more than four working days from the date

of the assessment in case of LT services. The intimation shall consist of the details of bill amount and the due

date for payment.

The Distribution Licensee shall also upload the bill on its website on the day of bill generation. The billing and payment

details of minimum last one year for all consumers shall be made available on the Licensee's website.

(c) The Distribution Licensee shall issue the first bill in the same billing month for HT , LT CT services and

temporary services. For other services the first bill shall be issued preferably in the same billing month but

not exceeding two billing months from the date of effecting a new connection where post payment meters are

installed.

(d) In case the consumer does not receive the first bill within such period or any regular bill in subsequent periods,

he shall complain in writing to the Distribution Licensee and the Distribution Licensee shall issue the bill within

seven days. The consumer can also get his billing details from Licensee's website.

(e) The consumer is equally responsible to make the payment promptly and regularly for the electricity consumed

by him from the Licensee.

(f) The Distribution Licensee shall not generate more than two provisional bills for a consumer during one financial

year and if the provisional billing continues for more than two billing cycles except under extraordinary situation

due to force majeure, the consumer may refuse to pay the dues until bill is raised by the Distribution Licensee

as per actual meter reading.

(g) The information regarding the authority with whom grievance or complaint pertaining to bill can be lodged shall

be provided along with the bill and the same shall also be made available on Distribution Licensee's website.

(h) In case of vacation of premises, the Distribution Licensee shall arrange to take a special reading of the meter

on receiving the consumer's written request and issue a final bill including all arrears till the date of billing and

issue a No-Dues certificate on receiving final payment, within seven days from the receipt of such payment."

17. In regulation 9, after sub-regulation (1), the following shall be substituted, namely:

"Whenever there is change in the sanctioned demand, the change shall be effected, as far as possible, to coincide

with the next meter reading. However, if it is not possible to do so, the meter shall be reset and the maximum demand

charges shall be billed proportionately for the respective periods.

Revised Test Report (RTR) shall be taken incorporating all relevant details of change in demand except temporary

reduction of demand. The date of RTR shall be the date of effect of change in demand. The changes made in respect to

meter/metering system such as meter details / CT details / C.T. ratio available / adopted, change in M.F meter/meter box

seals etc shall be documented in the RTR clearly. However, for temporary reduction of demand effected on seasonal basis

as requested by the consumer without any change in the metering system, the RTR is not necessary.

(1A) Dynamic reduction of demand to suit the seasonal requirement is applicable to Industries other than IT services

covered under IIIB and also marriage halls covered under Tariff V. Dynamic reduction of demand shall be effected on

application by willing consumers. Such application shall be made online in a simple format. No inspection is necessary.

The metering system need not be de-rated for such temporary reduction of demand. The reduction in demand shall take

effect from the date of meter reading and MD reset of succeeding assessment following the date of application. Contracted

demand shall remain the same and continue to be unaltered in their Test report and agreement. Revised test report is not

necessary.

The reduction of demand shall be applicable for a minimum of one billing cycle. Reduction of demand is permissible

four times in a block of one year. The period of one year block shall be reckoned from the commencement of first billing

cycle from which reduction of demand from the contracted demand was sanctioned. After a particular sanction, the

consumer can extend the period of reduction of demand, provided that the application is made before the date of expiry

of billing cycle until which the reduction of demand stands sanctioned. Also the consumer shall have an option of applying

increase in demand within the contracted limit from the date of expiry of existing sanction. In both cases such application

for extension of period or revision of desired demand reduction shall also be counted for the purpose of reckoning the four

times permissible in one year.

On expiry of above period of demand reduction, the reduced demand shall automatically be restored to the original

level of contracted demand on the date of the expiry. In case the recorded demand exceeds the level of reduced temporary

demand in a billing cycle, the fixed charges for the entire contracted demand shall be payable for that billing cycle. If

the temporary reduction of demand is made or extended for a continuous period of one year by the consumer without

restoring to the contracted demand at any point of time during that year, the reduced demand at the end of such block

of one year period shall be made permanent as the contracted demand with revised RTR and agreement. The metering

system shall also be de-rated if necessary. Thereafter if the consumer requires additional demand, he shall apply afresh

for the additional demand and the terms and all charges payable at the time of such application shall be applicable. Such

applications shall be given separate priority.

Licensee shall make required changes in the application and billing software for seamless processing and uniform

implementation."

18. In Regulation 10, after existing sub-regulation (5), the following shall be inserted, namely:-

"(6) In case of unforeseen constraints on the part of Licensee to carry out the assessment / force-majeure conditions,

the Licensee may have the option of allowing the consumer to send the picture of meter display of the respective service

connection that indicates the meter reading of billing parameters and the date of such readings, through registered mobile

or email to the designated officer of the Licensee."

19. The existing caption of Regulation 11 and sub-regulation (1) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"11. Assessment of billing in cases where the meter is defective:

(1) Where the meter fixed is found defective or burnt or to have ceased to function and no theft of energy or violation

is suspected, the quantity of electricity supplied during the period when the meter was defective, shall be assessed based

on the data downloaded through CMRI from the defective meter and scrutiny of those data , load curve etc., besides taking

into consideration of site condition to corroborate the assessment so made. Wherever such downloading of data could

not be done, the reason for not getting the meter tested or the reason for not downloading the data from the defective or

burnt meter shall be recorded and signed by the designated authority by the Licensee. Wherever the data could not be

downloaded, the quantity of electricity supplied during the period when the meter was defective, shall be assessed as

mentioned hereunder."

20. In Regulation 11, at the end of sub-regulation (6), the following expression shall be inserted, namely:-

"In all above cases, the relevant test results and clear working sheet indicating the basis of computation of billing

for the back period, the period during which the meter was found defective etc., shall be promptly communicated to the

consumer in writing under acknowledgement."

21. The existing Regulation 14A shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"14A Notice to consumers under automated meter reading system-

Notwithstanding anything contained in regulations 5,8,13,14 and 16 of this code or any provision in the Distribution

Code, wherever the Licensee implements automated meter reading system through Automated Meter Reading (AMR)

Technology / Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Technology using smart meters/ any other modern technology

using smart meter or computerized billing, the billing details such as, Electricity Consumption, Consumption charges for

electricity, the due date of payment, demand for additional Security Deposit, tamper indications if displaced, any other

demand/information etc., shall be communicated through e-mail or SMS to the registered mobile number/e-mail id or any

other electronic mode adopted by the Licensee with prior intimation to the Commission and such communication shall be

deemed to be the notice issued for such purposes.

For this purpose, all consumers have to register their mobile number/ e-mail id with the Licensee and it is the

responsibility of the consumer to ensure the correctness and periodical updation of mobile number and e-mail id, so

registered. However, the Licensee has to provide appropriate facility for such verification and updation".

22. In regulation 15, at the beginning of sub-regulation (1), the following expression shall be added, namely:-

"Consumer shall have option to pay bills online or offline."

23. In regulation 15, the sub-regulations (2) & (3) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(2) All High Tension bills, including those on account of miscellaneous charges, shall be paid within the due date

fixed by the Licensee from the date of the bill. The High Tension consumer shall pay the bills through electronic mode

such as RTGS / NEFT / Online money transfer for all payments of more than Rs.1000/-. Depending on the circumstances,

the designated authority of the Distribution Licensee shall however accept cash payments on special occasions and

unavoidable circumstances. If the payment is not received within fifteen days (notice period) from the expiry of the due date

allowed for payment, the supply will be disconnected. However the consumer may be allowed extension of time to make

payment beyond the expiry of the notice period allowed for payment, on an application made to the designated authority of

the Distribution Licensee, subject to the levy of BPSC as specified in this Code.

(3) Low Tension consumers shall pay the amount due in cash or online or by money order or by demand draft on

local bank, or by cheque drawn on a bank where the Distribution Section Office is located or through electronic payment

or collection through bank's branch counters or post office, etc. as stipulated by the Distribution Licensee. However, local

bodies and Railways may issue cheque on the banks situated in the place of their office and the Licensee may claim the

collection charges, if any, from such consumers. Payment for amounts exceeding Rs.1000/- (Rupees one thousand only)

is preferred by DD / cheque / online payment. Depending on the circumstances, the designated authority of the Distribution

Licensee shall however accept cash payments also and advise the consumer for future remittances by DD / cheque/online

payment."

24. In regulation 16, the following shall be inserted, after the existing content, namely:-

"If the meagre balance (difference between the billed electricity charges and higher amount paid by the consumer)

could not be given to the consumer at the counter due to scarcity of small denomination of amount or the consumer had

prepared cheque with excess amount inadvertently, the due balance may be credited to the advance of the consumer

account with the oral consent of the consumer."

25. In regulation 17, the existing sub-regulation (7) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(7) The Licensee shall on receipt of the notice referred to in sub-regulation (3) make such adjustment of the dues

due to him from the consumer as may be necessary to clear the dues from the consumer against the Security Deposit or

additional Security Deposit or any other deposit made by the consumer, and after making such adjustment, refund the

balance deposit, if any, to the consumer within three months from the date of expiry of the notice period referred to in

sub-regulation (3) by direct credit to the account of consumer under advice to him, if bank account details are provided."

26. In regulation 17, the existing sub-regulation (8) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(8)Where any consumer has more than one service connection, if he defaults in the payment of dues relating to

any one of the service connections that includes dues pointed out by validated audit, charges due to theft of energy,

unauthorised use of electricity, violation, dues relating to deposit contribution works, etc., the Licensee may include such

dues in other service connection(s) in the name of the consumer and cause those service connection(s) to be disconnected

after issuing proper notice with working sheet and quoting the authority under which such dues are payable, till all the

arrears due for all the service connections are paid, notwithstanding the fact that the service connections are covered

under separate agreements."

27. In regulation 19, the existing sub-regulation (6) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(6) The assessment under this section shall be made at a rate equal to twice the tariff applicable for the relevant

category for which the load was found to have been misused for the period specified in sub-section (5) excluding the cost

of supplied electricity already paid by the consumer for the units / demand recorded in the meter for the period for which

such assessment is made. The formula for the assessment is given in Form 8-A in Appendix to this Code."

28. In regulation 22, the existing sub-regulation (1) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(1) The Licensee shall restore the supply to the service immediately and in any case not exceeding six working hours

on receipt of electricity charges or such other dues and other charges as applicable."

29. In regulation 22, in sub-regulation (6), the existing sub-clause (ii) shall be substituted with the following,

namely:-

"(ii) The authorized Officer of the Licensee may permit such consumer to pay the outstanding in installments and to

avail reconnection on receipt of 40% of the total arrears outstanding after closing of account due to the Licensee,

which include –

(a) Arrears on the date of closure of accounts.

(b) The applicable BPSC / interest up to the date of payment.

(c) The balance 60% of the amount shall be collected in ten monthly installments. In addition to the above, the full

amount of Security Deposit adjusted while closing of account shall be collected in one lump sum along with

the aforesaid portion of 40% before effecting restoration of supply.

Explanation: For the purpose of removal of doubts, it is hereby declared that any tariff minimum collected by the

Tamil Nadu Electricity Board prior to the date of publication of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply (Amendment) Code, 2006

in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, that is to say prior to 21st June 2006 on the basis of sub-regulation (6) as it stood

before the said amendment need not be refunded by the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board."

30. In regulation 23, in sub-regulation (AA), in clause (7) the expression,

"Provided that if the quantum of energy consumption is recorded in the meter installed by the Distribution Licensee in

the consumer's premises, the authorized officer shall arrive such energy consumption as per the assessment formula given

in Form 8-A in Appendix to this Code."

shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"Provided that Section 135 shall be invoked only for the following cases involving the offence of theft of energy:

(i) Cases where the energy is not recorded / partially recorded in the meter.

(ii) Cases of illegal restoration of disconnected service supply to disconnected service in any manner.

(iii) Cases of unauthorized usage of power from agricultural and Hut services."

31. In Form-8 of Appendix, in part I, in clause (E), the existing sub-clause ii, shall be substituted with the

following, namely:-

"ii Assessment of quantum of demand charges in HT service and fixed charges in LT services:

(a) For all Service connections, the maximum demand shall be assessed as 75% of the total connected load at

the time of inspection subject to a minimum of the sanctioned / contracted demand. A power factor of 0.90 lag

for HT and 0.85 lag for LT shall be used for conversion between kVA and kW.

(b) Assessment of demand charges for HT services:-

Twice the appropriate H.T. tariff rate for maximum demand.

(c) Assessment of fixed charges for LT services:-

Twice the appropriate LT tariff rate for fixed charges."

32. In Form-8 of Appendix, the existing part II, shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"II. Assessment of quantum of energy consumption and charges in a case of illegal restoration of supply to

a disconnected service connection shall be as follows:

(A) The period of assessment will be for twelve months immediately preceding the date of detection of the illegal

restoration of supply or for the period from the date of disconnection of the service connection to the date of

detection of the illegal restoration, whichever period is less:

(B) The quantum of energy for assessment and computation of assessment charges for illegal restoration of

supply shall be as follows:

(i) When the meter is healthy:- Units recorded from the date of disconnection of the service connection to the

date of detection. The assessment shall be equal to twice the tariff applicable that includes both the energy

and demand/fixed charges. The tariff charges for the units/demand recorded in the meter for the period

for which the assessment is made shall not be collected. If collected, the same shall be credited to the

consumer account.

(ii) When the meter is found defective:- Quantum of energy consumed by illegal restoration of energy (U) shall

be computed using the formula above given in part I.

(C) The assessment shall be at two times the applicable charges of electricity that includes both energy charges

and demand/fixed charges.

(D) In addition to the above assessment charges, all other procedures laid down under sub-regulation 23 (AA) of

this Code including the stipulations in regard to compounding the offence shall be followed.

Note: The applicable tariff as specified for assessment is the tariff in force during such period of assessment for all

the above cases dealt under FORM 8".

33. Existing Form 8-A of Appendix of Supply Code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 8-A

[Refer Regulation 19 (6)]

FORMULA OF ASSESSMENT TOWARDS UNAUTHORIZED USE OF ELECTRICITY UNDER SECTION 126 OF

THE ELECTRICITY ACT 2003.

(i) Quantum of misused energy :

U = a x ( b / c) kWh

Where,

a – Total consumption recorded during the preceding period of existence of such violations limited to a

specified period

b – Misused load found at the time of inspection

c – Total connected load found at the time of inspection

(ii) Amount of assessment on account of unauthorized use of energy

= [(2 x U x d) – (U x e)] + [(2 x b x F1 ) – (b x F2 )]

Where,

U - Quantum of misused energy, kWh

d - Tariff of unauthorized use

e - Tariff of authorized use

F1 - Demand / fixed charges of unauthorized use

F2 - Demand / fixed charges of authorized use

b - Quantum of unauthorised demand in kW / kVA

(iii) Period of unauthorized use

The authorized officer may take into account the following and arrive at the least period (duration) of unauthorized

use of electricity:

(a) For the period of twelve months

(b) For the period from the date of prior inspection if any by the Licensee's officer to the date of detection.

(c) From the date of service connection to the date of detection

(d) Wherever electronic meters are installed and the load curves are studied periodically, the period of unauthorized

use of electricity could be limited to the exact period as could be determined scientifically.

(e) Based on the valid document produced by the accused person.

(f) For any other reasonable period as assessed by the authorized officer to the best of his judgment.

Note: The tariff for unauthorized use (d) as specified in the above formulae for assessing the charges is the tariff in

force during such period of assessment."

34. Existing Form 9 of Appendix of Supply Code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 9

[Refer Regulation 23 (AA) (8)]

Provisional Assessment order for *theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply under section 135 / 138 of the Electricity

Act, 2003.

From To

(The Authorised Officer), (Full address of the person in whose

name the service connection stands

(or) occupier

(or) enjoyer, etc.)

Letter No.…………………………………………………………..…,dated………

Sir,

Sub: *Theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply – Detected in HT / LT SC No…………Tariff….Provisional

Assessment Order - Reg.

Ref: Inspection Report dated …

1.0 On…………………………..(the day, month, year of inspection) at………………..(time) hours the service connection

in SC No…………………….. located at Door No………………, in SF No…………………. (Full address of the service

connection) which is/was in the name of Thiru/Thirumathy ………………………… */and its installation being occupied /

used by …………………………….. was inspected by me in the presence of you / your representative Thiru/Thirumathy

…………………………………………..

2.0 *During the inspection it was found that an offence of theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply has been

committed ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………… (describe the actual mode of theft with details of artificial means found in the service/unauthorized reconnection

of a disconnected service connection). By committing the said offence, you have dishonestly abstracted, consumed and

used energy with the intention to defraud the Licensee.

The above said illegal abstraction, consumption and use of energy is punishable under section 135 / 138 of the

Electricity Act 2003.

The service connection was disconnected on the date of detection of above offence.

3.0 The approximate loss caused by you due to dishonest abstraction/illegal restoration of supply is assessed at

Rs………………. (Rupees ….……………………………………………) in accordance with the regulations of the Tamil Nadu

Electricity Supply Code, and a working sheet is enclosed herewith.

4.0 The assessment amount as referred to above shall be paid within 7 working days from the date of receipt of this

order.

5.0 If you are desirous of filing objections, if any, against the provisional assessment, you may send your explanation

to the address of the undersigned with sufficient proof, within seven days from the date of receipt of this order. You may

also choose to appear in person or through an authorised representative with relevant documents for an enquiry before the

undersigned within 10 days from the date of receipt of this order.

6.0 You are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this order immediately.

Yours Faithfully, (Authorised Officer) Encl: Copies of

1. Inspection Report

2. Statement Recorded (if any)

3. Mahazar

4. Working sheet as per FORM 8

Copy submitted to: …………………………

Copy to……..

He is instructed to serve this order to the accused person with dated acknowledgement and send the acknowledgement

to this office.

* Strike out whichever is not applicable. (If offence is theft of energy, section 135 is applicable, strike out section 138.

If the offence is illegal restoration of supply, both section 135 and 138 are applicable.)"

35. Existing Form 10 of Appendix of Supply Code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 10

[Refer Regulation 23 (AA) (15)]

Final Assessment order for *theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply under section

135 / 138 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

From To

(The Authorised Officer), (Full address of the person in whose

name the service connection stands

(or) occupier (or) enjoyer, etc.)

Letter No.…………………………………………………………………,dated………

Sir,

Sub: *Theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply – Detected in HT/LT SC No…………….Tariff….- Final Assessment

Order - Reg.

Ref: 1. Provisional Assessment Order…

*2. Your reply….

********

1.0 * On…………………………..(the day, month, year of inspection) at……………….. (time) hours

the service connection bearing SC No…………………….. located at Door No………………, in SF

No……………………………………………………………………. (Full address of the service connection) which is/

was in the name of Thiru / Thirumathy ………………………… / and its installation being occupied / used by

……………………………………………was inspected by me in the presence of you / your representative Thiru / Thirumathy

…………………………….

2.0 * During the inspection it was found that an offence of theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply has been

committed ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………… (describe the actual mode of theft with details of artificial means found in the service/unauthorized reconnection

of a disconnected service connection). By committing the said offence, you have dishonestly abstracted, consumed and

used energy with the intention to defraud the Licensee. The above said illegal abstraction, consumption and use of energy

is punishable under section 135 / 138 of the Electricity Act 2003.

3.0 A provisional assessment was issued to you in the reference cited and you were allowed to file your objections

and to appear for a hearing as per the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code.

4.0 * As you have not made any objection or representation / On detailed examination and careful consideration of

your explanation offered, facts and records furnished in your letter / during the personal hearing, the final order is issued

herewith as described below:-

(A reasoned / detailed speaking order to be passed by the Officer concerned after thorough analysis of the theft of

electricity noticed, inspection report , explanation offered and the findings, etc., Reference to be made to the materials in

support of the claim about the existence of theft, the involvement or the role of the consumer with reference to the said theft

of energy, relevant rules and regulations relating to consumers' duty and obligations, submissions made by the accused

person in his written reply as well as during his personal hearing, documents/materials submitted by him etc., and reasons

for acceptance and rejection of the same ).

5..0 * The loss caused by you due to above explained theft of energy illegal restoration of supply is finally assessed

at Rs…………………………………………………………………………………… (Rupees ……………………………) in

accordance with the regulations of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code, and a working sheet is enclosed herewith. This

final assessment amount shall be paid within seven working days from the date of receipt of this order.

You are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this order immediately.

Yours Faithfully,

(Authorised Officer)

Encl: Copies of

1. Inspection Report

2. Statement Recorded (if any)

3. Mahazar

4. Provisional Assessment Order.

5. Working sheet as per FORM 8

Copy submitted to:

He is instructed to serve the order to the accused person with dated acknowledgement and send the same to this

office.

* Strike out whichever is not applicable. (If offence is theft of energy, section 135 is applicable, strike out section 138.

If the offence is illegal restoration of supply, both section 135 and 138 are applicable.)"

36. Existing Form 11 of Appendix of Supply code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 11

[Refer Regulation 23(AA) (22)]

Compounding of offence under section 152 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

From To

(The Authorized Officer), Full address of the person in whose name the service

connection stands(or) occupier (or) enjoyer, etc.)

Letter No.…………………………..,dated…………

Sir,

Sub : *Theft of energy / Illegal restoration of supply – Detected in HT / LT SC

No…… Tariff…. - Order on Compounding Amount - Reg.

1.0 *On…………………………..(the day, month, year of inspection) at………………..(time) hours the service

connection No…………………….. located at Door No………………, in SF No…………………. (Full address of the

service connection) which is / was in the name of Thiru / Thirumathy ………………………… / and its installation being

occupied / used by …………………was inspected by me in the presence of you / your representative……………..

Thiru / Thirumathy…………………………………………..

2.0 *During the inspection it was found that an offence of theft of energy/ Illegal restoration of supply has been

committed………………………………...……………………… (describe the actual mode of theft with details of artificial

means found in the service/unauthorized reconnection of a disconnected service connection). By committing the said

offence, you have dishonestly abstracted, consumed and used energy with the intention to defraud the Licensee.

3.0 The above said illegal abstraction, consumption and use of energy is punishable under section 135 / 138 of the

Electricity Act 2003.

4.0 As you have opted for compounding of offence under section 152 of the Electricity Act, 2003, you are requested

to pay Rs………………. (Rupees……………………..…) towards the compounding of the offence as mentioned above.

Yours Faithfully,

(Authorised officer)

Encl: Working sheet.

Copy to …………….

* Strike out whichever is not applicable. (If offence is theft of energy, section 135 is applicable, strike out

section 138. If the offence is illegal restoration of supply, both section 135 and 138 are applicable.)"

37. Existing Form-12 of Appendix of Supply code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 12

[Refer Regulation 19(A)(4)]

Provisional Assessment order for unauthorised use of electricity under section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

From To

(The Assessment Officer), (Full address of the person in whose name the service

connection stands (or) occupier (or) enjoyer, etc.)

Letter No.………………………………………………………………….,dated……….

Sir,

Sub:- Unauthorised use of Electricity detected in HT / LT SC No…………

Tariff……… - Section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003 – Issue of

Provisional Assessment Order - Reg.

Ref:- Inspection Report dated …………….

1.0 On………………………….. (the day, month, year of inspection) at ……………….. (time) hours, the electricity

service connection No…………………….. located at Door No………………, in SF No…………………. (Full address of

the service connection) which is / was in the name of Thiru / Thirumathy ……………………….……/ and its installation

being occupied / used by ………………………………was inspected by me in the presence of you/your representative

Thiru / Thirumathy ……………………………………..

2.0 During the inspection, unauthorised use of electricity was noticed as detailed below:

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………….. (describe the actual mode of unauthorised use of electricity as per the section 126 of the Act). The

above said unauthorised use of electricity is punishable under section 126 of the Electricity Act 2003.

3.0 A copy of the inspection report is enclosed. A copy of the mahazar prepared at your premises and acknowledgement

obtained from you / your representative has already been furnished to you / your representative. A copy of the statement

recorded and signed by you / your representative is also enclosed.

4.0 You are hereby called upon to remove the cause of unauthorised use of electricity immediately if not done already

and confirm the same by written intimation.

5.0 The charges payable by you towards the above unauthorized use of electricity is provisionally assessed at

Rs……………………………… as per the sub-sections (5) and (6) of section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003. The working

sheet is enclosed. The amount shall be paid within seven days from the date of receipt of this order, failing which the

Service Connection shall become liable to be disconnected.

6.0 If you are desirous of filing objections, if any, against this provisional assessment, you may send your explanation

to the address of the undersigned with sufficient proof, within seven days from the date of receipt of this order. You may

also choose to appear in person or through an authorised representative with relevant documents for an enquiry before the

undersigned within the same duration of seven days.

7.0 If no objection/ representation is received from you against this provisional assessment order within the stipulated

period, the final order of assessment shall be passed accordingly.

8.0 You are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this order immediately.

Yours Faithfully,

(Assessment Officer)

Encl: Copies of

1. Inspection Report

2. Statement Recorded (if any)

3. Mahazar

4. Working sheet as per FORM 8A

Copy submitted to: ………………………….

Copy to:

He is instructed to serve this order to the consumer / occupier / enjoyer with dated acknowledgement and send the

acknowledgement to this office."

38. Existing Form-13 of Appendix of Supply code shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"FORM 13

[Refer Regulation 19(3) and 19(A)(4)]

Final order of Assessment for unauthorised use of electricity under section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

From To

(The Assessment Officer), (Full address of the person in whose name the service

connection stands (or) occupier (or) enjoyer, etc.)

Letter No.…………………………………………………………………..,dated……….

Sir,

Sub:- Unauthorised use of Electricity detected in HT / LT SC No………………

Tariff ……… - Section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003 – Issue of Final

Assessment Order - Reg.

Ref:- 1. Inspection Report dated ………………...

*2. Your reply…………………………………..

1.0 On………………………….. (the day, month, year of inspection) at ……………….. (time) hours, the electricity

service connection No…………………….. located at Door No………………, in SF No…………………. (Full address of the

service connection) which is / was in the name of Thiru / Thirumathy ………………………… / *and its installation being

occupied / used by ………………………………………. was inspected by me ……………………………………………in the

presence of you / your representative Thiru / Thirumathy ……………………………………………

2.0 During the inspection, unauthorised use of electricity was noticed as detailed below:

…………………………………………………………………………………… (describe the actual mode of unauthorised

use of electricity as per the section 126 of the Act).

3.0 A provisional Assessment order was issued ………………………………………………………………………………

………………………vide reference (1) cited and you were allowed to file your objections if any and also to appear for a

hearing as per Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code.

4.0 *As you have not made any objection or representation / On detailed examination and careful consideration of

your explanation offered in your letter cited in reference (2) and with regard to the facts and records furnished by you, the

final order is issued herewith as described below:-

(A reasoned / detailed speaking order to be passed by the Officer concerned after thorough analysis of the

unauthorised use of electricity noticed, inspection report, explanation offered and the findings etc., Reference to be made

to the materials in support of the claim about the existence of unauthorized use of electricity, the involvement or the

role of the consumer with reference to the said unauthorized use of electricity, relevant rules and regulations relating to

consumers' duty and obligations, objections made by the consumer in his written reply as well as during his personal

hearing, documents/materials submitted by him etc., and reasons for acceptance and rejection of the same ).

5.0 The charges payable by you under sub-sections (5) and (6) of the section 126 of the Electricity Act, 2003 is finally

assessed at Rs………………………………………………………(Rupees ………………………only). The detailed working

sheet is enclosed herewith. The said amount shall be paid within 15 days from the date of receipt of this order, failing which

the service connection shall become liable for disconnection on expiry of further fifteen days notice.

6.0 If you choose to prefer an appeal against this order, you may prefer an appeal in Form 6 of the Tamil Nadu

Electricity Supply Code to the appellate authority (Executive Engineer / Superintending Engineer / Operation

………………………………………. (address of the appellate authority)) within 30 days from the date of receipt of this order

on deposit of half of the assessment amount with the Licensee as per section 127(2) of the Electricity Act, 2003 along with

an appeal fee of Rs.100/- by Demand Draft. The Demand Draft shall be drawn in favour of …………………………………

……………………………………………………………………Payable at …………………………

7.0 You are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this Final assessment order immediately.

Yours Faithfully,

(Assessment Officer)

Encl: 1. Inspection Report

2. Statement Recorded (if any)

3. Mahazar

4. Provisional Assessment Order.

5. Working sheet as per FORM 8A

Copy submitted to:

He is instructed to serve the order to the accused person with dated acknowledgement and send the same to this

office.

* Strike out whichever is not applicable."

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

DR.C.VEERAMANI,

Secretary,

Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

Explanatory statEmEnt

Taking into considerations of recommendations of the Code Review Panel formed and empowered under Regulation 27 of TNE Supply Code and provisions of Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 made by the Ministry of Power, Govt. of India, following amendments are required to be made in the existing Regulations of the TNE Supply Code 2004, as amended:

More clarity needs to be brought to the applicability of unauthorized use of electricity and categories of supply, by exclusive definition in accordance with the ruling of Honorable Supreme court in the case of Executive Engineer & Another Vs M/s Seetaram Rice mill { civil appeal No. 8859 of 2011 reported in (2012) 2 SCC 108}.

The various category of charges recoverable by the Licensee and Registration charges specified in the Supply Code and Tariff order need to be made consistent with each other.

The regulation governing the excess demand over and above the sanctioned demand need to be modified to give more opportunity to consumer to control the demand within the sanctioned demand and to bring discipline among applicable consumers for better load management, demand control and regulated capacity adequacy in the LT network system and metering mechanism.

The provisions relating to purchase of meters by consumers for new and temporary service connection, various obligations of consumer and Licensee connected with meter, procedures involved in the challenge test of meters disputing its accuracy as opted by the consumers, time limits, procedures involved in replacement of defective/damaged/burnt meter, loss calculation involved in the LT metering of HT services etc., need to be revised and elaborated, for error-free and effective implementation to ensure prompt service to consumers.

The procedure for assessment, billing, time limits serving of bills and the obligation of Licensee as well as consumers in these areas need to be revised and elaborated for proper billing and better service to the consumer.

The procedure of documentation for the revised demand, need to be made more specific to avoid possible lapse in assessment and billing. The concept of dynamic load reduction is envisaged to reduce the financial burden on the seasonal industries.

The methodology of bill revision in case of meter defects need to be revised, giving priority to the data downloaded from the defective meter for basis for revision.

E-payment needs to be encouraged to avoid hardship to consumer owing to physical mode of payment.

Provision to refund the security deposit to the consumer by direct credit into the consumer's bank account is envisaged.

Avenue for payment of dues to Licensee has to be enlarged by loading all kinds of arrears in other service of the defaulter to ensure timely realization of dues to the Licensee.

The time limit for restoration of supply needs to be specified to ensure prompt service to consumers.

The provisions in regard to unauthorized use of electricity (violation by way of misuse of tariff, unauthorized extension of service etc.,) and theft of electricity need to be made more clearer in line with Commission's order in M.P. No. 28 of 2021 dated 05.05.2022 to stop the continuing misinterpretation of these provisions and resultant hardship to the consumers, due to wrong approach of Licensee officers by booking all violations under provisions of theft of energy.

The Forms relating to computation, issue of show cause / provisional assessment / final assessment / compounding of offence notices etc., need to be revisited and revamped to be comprehensively in line with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003 and Regulations of this Commission.

Accordingly, this amendment seeks to incorporate the above provisions in the Regulations of the Commission.

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

DR.C.VEERAMANI, Secretary,

Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

.

Annexure

TAMIL NADU ELECTRICITY SUPPLY CODE

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

Dr. C. VEERAMANI, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

TAMIL NADU ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION

Amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Distribution Code

[Notification No. TNERC/DC/ 8-29, dated 02.09.2023.]

No. VI(2)/ 16(d-2)/2023

WHEREAS the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission specified the Tamil Nadu Electricity Distribution Code in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 181 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (Central Act 36 of 2003) and notified the same in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, dated the 1st September, 2004, and subsequent amendments, notified thereafter.

AND WHEREAS it is considered necessary to issue further certain amendments to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Distribution Code and such amendments shall be subject to the condition of previous publication as required under sub-section (3) of the said Section 181 and accordingly undergone previous publication.

NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred on it by Section 181 read with Section 46 and Section 86 of the Electricity Act, 2003 and all other powers enabling it in this behalf, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission hereby makes the following amendment to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Distribution Code, 2004.

Amendments

In the said Distribution Code;-

1. In Regulation 2, at the end of sub-regulation (1), for the general expression, the following shall be substituted,

namely:-

"Words and expressions used in this Code but not defined either in this Code or the Act or the Electricity (Rights

of Consumer Rules), 2020 or any other Regulations of the Commissioner the General Clauses Act, 1897 (Central Act

10 of 1897) shall have the same meanings as commonly understood in the Engineering and Commercial parlance."

2. In sub-regulation (3) of Regulation 6, the expression "Annexure-I" shall be substituted with the expression

"Appendix-I" and the expression "Annexure-II" shall be substituted with the expression "Appendix-II".

3. In Regulation 27, for sub-regulation (1) and entries related thereto, the following sub-regulation and entries

related thereto shall be substituted, namely:-

"(1) the duty of Licensee to supply electricity is as below:

(a) Every Distribution Licensee shall, on an application by the owner or occupier of any premises, give supply of electricity

to such premises, within one week after receipt of the application requiring such supply.

Provided that where such supply requires extension of distribution mains, or commissioning of new sub-stations, the

Distribution Licensee shall supply the electricity to such premises immediately after such extension or commissioning or

within such period as specified in the Distribution Standards of Performance Regulations, 2004 by the Commission as

amended.

Provided further that in case of a village or hamlet or area wherein no provision for supply of electricity exists, the

Commission may extend the said period as it may consider necessary for electrification of such village or hamlet or area.

Explanation:-

(a) For the purposes of this sub-regulation, 'application' means the application complete in all respects in the

appropriate form, as required by the Distribution Licensee, along with documents showing payment of necessary

charges and other compliances.

(b) It shall be the duty of every Distribution Licensee to provide, if required, electric plant or electric line for giving

electric supply to the premises requiring such supply.

Provided that no person shall be entitled to demand or to continue to receive, from a Licensee the supply of electricity

for any premises owned or enjoyed by him unless he has agreed and paid to the Licensee such price and charges as

determined by the Commission from time to time.

(c) If a Distribution Licensee fails to supply the electricity within the period specified, he shall be liable to pay to the

applicant in compliance with the stipulations of the Distribution Standards of Performance Regulations, 2004 of

the Commission as amended.

Provided that the Licensee will refuse to supply electricity to an intending consumer who had defaulted payment of

any dues to the Licensee in respect of any other service connection in his name."

4. In sub-regulation (2)(a) of Regulation 27, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the expression

"Appendix-III".

5. In Regulation 27, in sub-regulation (2), after clause (b), the following shall be inserted: -

"Digging of well / bore well shall not be insisted at the initial stage of registration in case the well / bore well is not

existing already."

6. In Regulation 27, in sub-regulation (2), for clause (c)and entries related thereto, the following clause and

entries related thereto shall be substituted, namely: -

"(c) As and when the applicant's turn comes in the order of seniority, the Licensee shall issue a 90 days' notice to the

applicant to ascertain whether the particulars given in the application such as ownership of the existing or proposed well /

bore well and land, S.F. No(s) are the same as on date. Proper acknowledgement from the applicant for having received

the notice shall be obtained and preserved. Motor-pump set and capacitor shall not be insisted at this stage. After the

well / bore well is made ready with installation and wiring of motor pump set, capacitor etc, the applicant shall enter the

particulars with dated signature in the readiness register maintained in the Section office. As per dated seniority of such

entry, the Section officer shall make field inspection for confirmation of the particulars and existence of the well / bore well

and enter the same in the readiness register with his dated signature within three days.

The date of entering particulars in the readiness register by the applicant shall be reckoned as the seniority for

preparing estimate".

7. In sub-regulation (2)(i) of Regulation 27, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the

expression "Appendix-III".

8. In Regulation 27, the sub-regulation (3) and explanation shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(3) The application for HT service connection shall be in FORM-4. Application Form for L.T Service Connection for

new or additional demand (other than Temporary supply, Agriculture and Hut), Temporary service connection, LT Agriculture

service connection and LT Hut service connection shall be in FORM - 1, 1A, 2 and 3 respectively.

Explanation:

(a) The applicant shall have the option to hand over an application in person or apply online through web

portal or mobile app of Distribution Licensee. For applications made online, the acknowledgement with the

registration number shall be generated on submission of application and communicated to the applicant.

(b) The application handed over in person shall be scanned and uploaded on the website by the Licensee

as soon as it is received. The acknowledgement with the registration number of the application shall be

generated and intimated to the applicant.

(c) For HT category, the applications with necessary documents if in order shall be registered on payment

of requisite charges. If the application is incomplete, the defects shall be indicated and returned without

registration, within seven days of receipt.

For LT category, the applications shall be registered in the first instance on payment of requisite charges. If the

application is incomplete, a notice indicating the defect shall be sent within three days to the applicant for rectification and

re-submission.

For both categories, the defects so pointed out shall be rectified and resubmitted by the applicant within seven days

of receipt of notice, failing which the application is liable for cancellation.

(d) On rectification of defect and resubmission of application, the same shall be acknowledged. If not

resubmitted within specified time, the application shall be cancelled with due intimation to the applicant and

the charges paid if any shall be refunded to the applicant except registration charges. On cancellation of

application, the applicant shall intimate details of his bank account to the Licensee to enable online transfer

of refund. The Licensee shall make the refund credited to the applicant's bank account within seven days

from the date of such intimation.

(e) The date of generation of acknowledgement of application complete in all aspects with required information

and documents shall be deemed to be the date of receipt of application.

(f) In all cases, the acknowledgment shall be generated / sent within twenty four hours of working days after

receipt of application.

(g) The application tracking mechanism based on the unique registration number shall be provided by the

Distribution Licensee through web-based application or mobile app or through SMS or by any other mode

to monitor the status of processing of the application till the supply is given.

(h) All categories of application shall be accompanied with identity proof of the applicant issued by the State /

Central Government along with the other required documents specified in the respective application forms.

(i) The application form of new service connection is applicable for the additional demand also. The safety

requirement and safety related documents as required for the new service connection shall be applicable to

the additional demand also.

(j) The Licensee shall create a mobile app for submission of applications online."

9. In sub-regulation (4) of Regulation 27, the expressions "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the

expressions "Appendix-III".

10. In Regulation 27 after sub-regulation (11A), the following shall be inserted, namely:-

"Apart from the safety compliance as specified above, wherever the height of the building limit is specified by

Government Rules or other statutory orders for production of clearance certificate (like 12m height as currently specified

in the Tamil Nadu Combined Development and Building Rules), the applicant shall enclose the planning permission along

with the plan approval for such buildings. If the height of the building mentioned in the planning permission is less than the

limit specified in the aforesaid Rules / orders, clearance certificate as specified in the Rules / orders shall not be insisted.

Physical measurement is not necessary for these categories also."

11. In sub-regulation (12) of Regulation 27, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the

expression "Appendix-III".

12. In Regulation 27 after sub-regulation (15A), the following sub-regulation shall be inserted, namely:-

"15 (B) More than one service connections involving tariff I-D for the use of common facilities in multi tenements

residences in domestic premises as provisioned in Tariff Order issued by the Commission from time to time, are exempted

from conditions specified in the above sub-regulations."

13. In sub-regulation (16) of Regulation 27, the expression "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the

expression "Appendix-III".

14. In Regulation 29, the existing sub-regulation (12)(a) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(12)(a) Space as per the following norms shall be allotted by the applicant free of cost for establishment of a sub-

station / switching station in places of group housing / commercial complex requiring service connections where either (a)

the total demand of all the electrical services in the projects including the loads that will be incident in future exceeds /

would exceed 5 MVA or (b) total floor area of 30,000 square metre and above is constructed or proposed to be constructed

(excluding the stilt floor / basement floor.)

In case of non-availability of land inside the project premises, the applicant may allot the suitable land outside the

project premises at a distance not exceeding one kilo metre from the project site provided the proposed site and the

project site are connected by public road with clear and sufficient way leave and easy access to erect and maintain OH /

Cable line and equipment without any hindrance. The additional cost involved in erecting such lines, cables, equipment,

accessories etc., and required civil works if any shall be borne by the applicant. However, the difference in land cost if any

is not payable.

In case of requirement of land for large scale projects of customised nature like Industrial estates, SEZ etc., the

applicant shall allot the land required to establish the outdoor sub-station from 400kV to 33kV voltage level according to the

quantum of load incident / likely to be incident in future, as decided by the Licensee. Single land or multiple lands inside the

premises shall be allotted depending upon the intensity of load spread across the area of the land to ensure better voltage

profile, quality of supply and operational flexibility for uninterrupted supply."

15. In Regulation 29, for sub-regulation (12) (b) and entries related thereto, the following sub-regulation and

entries related thereto shall be substituted, namely:-

When the developers / owners of the premises apply for additional load / develops additional constructions in phases

etc., the above requirement of space for establishment of sub-station shall be applicable for the total load or total area of

construction that includes both the existing and additional load / area of construction.

16. In Regulation 29, the sub-regulation (12)(d) and explanation shall be substituted with the following

sub-regulation, namely:-

"(12)(d)Where the total demand exceeds / would exceed 5 MVA or the total floor area of 30,000 square metre and

above is constructed or proposed to be constructed (excluding the stilt floor / basement floor), the applicant shall allot the

land suitable for establishing a conventional outdoor Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) sub-station. The land shall be offered

either by gift deed or sale deed of free of cost or lease deed for 99 years @ Rs.1/- per annum. In case, the applicant

chooses to opt for allotting land suitable for Indoor sub-station or partial Indoor sub-station or GIS sub-station other than

conventional outdoor AIS sub-station, the applicant shall bear the difference in cost between the Indoor sub-station or

partial Indoor sub-station or GIS sub-station for which the space is offered and the conventional outdoor AIS sub-station.

The applicant has to allot the land for establishment of sub-station commensurate with the quantum of demand applied or

the demand assessed by the Licensee, whichever is higher.

Explanation:

(i) While calculating the difference in cost between the sub-stations of Indoor type and outdoor type or between

the sub-stations of Partial indoor and outdoor type or between the sub-stations of GIS type and outdoor type,

following methodology shall be adopted:

(ii) The portion pertaining to HV side equipment, the power transformer / Power Transformers feeding the applicant(s),

allied LV breaker / LV breakers, CTs, switches, panels, number of LV feeders feeding the applicant(s), feeder

equipment, panels, cables, accessories, etc., shall be taken in to account for comparison with the corresponding

counterparts of the outdoor sub-station and for computation of difference in cost between them.

(iii) The portion of cost pertaining to remaining Power Transformer(s), their allied HV switches, LV breaker(s), CTs,

switches, panels, LV feeders feeding other areas, feeder equipment, panels, cables, accessories etc., shall be

entirely borne by the Licensee.

(iv) The difference in cost between the control room building plus other civil works relating to conventional AIS

outdoor sub-station and the other type of sub-station for which the land is offered by the applicant, shall be borne

by the applicant."

17. In Regulation 29, for sub-regulation (16) and entries related thereto, the following sub-regulation and

entries related thereto shall be substituted, namely:-

29 (16) "Having agreed on the position of point of supply, the Engineer will render to the intending consumer an

estimate for the cost of laying the service line for the portion inside the consumer's premises if any, barring the cost of

Distribution Transformer and allied structure materials and accessories. Any work of laying the service line will be taken up

only after the intending consumer pays such estimated amount in advance in full."

18. In Regulation 29, the existing sub-regulation (17) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"17. The service line will be the property of the Licensee and the Licensee shall maintain it at his cost. The equipment,

poles, pillar boxes meter and accessories erected inside the consumer premises shall be safeguarded by the consumer

and maintained by the Licensee. The service connection materials including wire / cable etc., connected with the meter

from the nearest pole / pillar box from which it is tapped, shall be safeguarded and maintained by consumer and its

replacement either due to damage or wear and tear owing to aging shall be at the cost of consumer."

19. In Regulation 31, after the sub-regulation (1), the following shall be inserted, namely:-

"The original of test report is a permanent and statutory record which shall be retained and preserved by the Licensee."

20. In Regulation 31, for sub-regulation (5), the following sub-regulation shall be substituted, namely:-

"(5) If the intending consumer avails supply during the notice period of availability of supply, he shall pay the monthly

minimum charges for the entire demand at the notified tariff rate for the period from the date of issue of first notice of supply

availability till the date of availing supply.

The consumers who are availing extension of time beyond the due date specified in the concerned notice for the

payment of service connection charges, the BPSC at the appropriate rate shall be levied."

21. In sub-regulation (1) of Regulation 33, the expressions "Annexure-III" shall be substituted with the

expressions "Appendix-III".

22. In Regulation 33, the existing sub-regulation (5) shall be substituted with the following, namely:-

"(5) In case of permanent disconnection of the meter and allied termination of the agreement as requested by

the consumer under sub-regulation (3), the Licensee shall arrange for a special meter reading and prepare a final bill,

provided that the meter is in healthy condition with normal functioning and consumption. The disconnection shall be done

immediately after payment of the final bill. The balance amount due to any consumption between the final reading and the

permanent disconnection or any other due from the consumer in any of his service(s) shall be adjusted against the Security

Deposit and interest accrued thereon. The remaining Security Deposit and interest if any shall be either transferred to any

other service of the consumer or refunded to the consumer as per the option of the consumer. If the consumer opts for

refund, he shall intimate details of his bank account to the Licensee to enable online transfer of refund. The Licensee shall

make the refund credited to the applicant's bank account within seven days from the date of such intimation or the date

of disconnection whichever is later. The regularization of transaction / accounting of the released meter and closure of

accounts shall be done subsequently.

If the due is more than the Security Deposit and interest accrued thereon, the consumer shall pay the balance amount

to settle the dues in full before permanent disconnection and termination of agreement."

23. In Regulation 33, after sub-regulation (5), the following sub-regulation shall be inserted, namely:-

"(6) In the case of termination of agreement by the Licensee under sub-regulation (4) the Licensee shall recover

from the consumer the dues if any of the terminated service connection and also the dues if any of the other services

of same consumer by making such adjustment of dues against the Security Deposit and interest accrued thereon in the

terminated service. After making such adjustment, the Licensee shall transfer the balance deposit if any to other service

of the consumer or refund to the consumer as per option of consumer, within thirty days from the date of termination of

agreement. The regularization of transaction / accounting of the released meter and closure of accounts shall be done

subsequently."

24. In Regulation 39, in sub-regulation (2), the existing clause (ii) shall be substituted with the following,

namely:-

(ii) "For temporary supply, pre-payment meters (Rechargeable card model) shall be provided. The applicant shall have

the option either to purchase the pre-payment meter on his own as per prescribed standards, specifications and relevant

Regulations or require that meter be supplied by the Distribution Licensee. Unless the consumer elects to purchase his

own meter, the Licensee shall provide meters complying statutory standards and relevant Regulations and may require the

consumer to give adequate security for the price of the meter.

For pre-payment meter, payment of Security Deposit for current consumption is not required.

In case of market scarcity of pre-payment meter and both the applicant and Licensee are unable to procure and

provide the pre-payment meter, the conventional meter may be provided, either by applicant or by Licensee.

In such cases, Security Deposit equivalent to two times of the tariff charges for the consumption as calculated below

shall be collected and maintained throughout the temporary supply period:

Security Deposit = 2 x L x LF x H x D x T

Where,

L = Connected load in kW

LF =Load factor = 0.5

H = Number of hours of a day = 8 hours

D = Number of days of billing cycle period as specified in Regulation 8(1) of the Supply Code / proposed

period of use whichever is less.

T = Tariff rate of temporary supply as specified by the Commission from time to time."

25. In Regulation 45, in sub-regulation (1), for clause (i), the following clause shall be substituted, namely:-

"(i) For connecting up an installation, the Licensee shall be entitled to charge the consumer the actual cost of materials,

labour, transport plus overhead charges, for the works inside the consumer premises up to meter board, barring Distribution

Transformer, its structure and accessories."

26. In Regulation 45, in sub-regulation (1), for clause (iii), the following clause shall be substituted, namely:-

"(iii) The expenditure incurred for the portion outside the premises of the consumers in providing the electrical line

and plants including DT, pillar boxes, poles etc., used for the purpose of giving supply to applicants is covered under

development charges for LT and HT categories. This charge is determined periodically by the Commission on the basis

of load and category of service connection taking into account of tariff wise average cost of materials & man-hours etc.,

separately for the LT and HT category of overhead lines and underground cables, incurred by the Licensee. In case of EHT

category of 110kV and above, the development charges or the estimate charges in providing the electrical line and plant,

whichever is higher shall be payable by the consumer. The Licensee shall give due credit for the materials if any supplied

by the consumers."

27. In Regulation 45, at the end of sub-regulation (2), the following shall be added, namely:-

"The service connection materials including wire / cable connecting the meter and the nearest pole / pillar box from

which it is tapped shall be provided by the consumer."

28. In the said code, in Annexure-I, the heading "Annexure-I" shall be read as "Appendix-I".

29. In Annexure-I, the expression "Refer clause 6(3)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 6(3)".

30. In the said Code, in Annexure-II, the heading "Annexure-II" shall be read as "Appendix-II".

31. In Annexure-II, the expression "Refer clause 6(3)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 6(3)".

32. In the said Code, in Annexure-III, the heading "Annexure-III: FORMATS" shall be read as "Appendix-III:

FORMATS".

33. In Annexure III, in FORM 1, the existing caption shall be substituted with the following namely:-

"Application Form for L.T Service Connection for new or additional demand."

34. In Annexure III, in FORM 1, after clause (iii) in the 'Note', the following clause shall be inserted, namely:-

"(iv) Copy of applicant(s)' Identity card (issued by Central / TN State Govt.)"

35. In Annexure-III, in FORM 1A, after clause (iv) in the 'Note', the following clause shall be inserted, namely:-

"(v) Copy of applicant(s)' Identity card (issued by Central / TN State Govt.)"

36. In Annexure-III, in FORM 2, after serial number 4 of "Enclosure", the following shall be inserted, namely:-

"(5) Copy of applicant(s)' Identity card (issued by Central / TN State Govt.)"

37. In Annexure-III, in FORM 3, the 'Note' and entries related thereto, shall be substituted with the following

Note and entries related thereto, namely:-

"Note: The applicant shall produce documents as specified in item (i) & (ii) of 'Note' to FORM-1 of this Distribution

Code, when the applicant is the owner of the premises, and produce documents in item (iii) when the applicant is not the

owner of the premises. In the case of poromboke land, effecting of service connection will be governed by sub-regulation

(12) in Regulation 27 of this Code. For all cases, the applicant shall produce a copy of applicant's Identity card (issued by

Central / TN State Govt.)"

38. in Annexure-III, in FORM 4, in item No. 9(a), after clause 2 in the 'Note', the following clause shall be

inserted, namely:-

"(3) Copy of applicant(s)' Identity card (issued by Central / TN State Govt.)"

39. In FORM-5, the expression "Refer Clause 27(4)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 27(4)".

40. In FORM-6, the expression "Refer Clause 27(4)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 27(4)".

41. In FORM-7, the expression "Refer Clause 33(1)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 33(1)".

42. In FORM-8, the expression "Refer Clause 33(1)" shall be substituted with the expression "Refer

Regulation 33(1)".

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

Dr. C. VEERAMANI, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

Explanatory statEmEnt

Taking into consideration of recommendations of the Code Review Panel formed and empowered under Regulation 51 of the TNE Distribution Code and provisions of Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 made by the Ministry of Power, Govt. of India, following amendments are required to be made in the existing Regulations of the TNE Distribution Code 2004, as amended:

The time limit to give supply by the Licensee to the intending consumer where no distribution augmentation is required, need to be reduced to one week.

As there is a long gap of duration between registration of agricultural application and release of service connection, the digging of well / Bore well at the initial stage of registration is not required to be insisted. This has to be made more specific in the regulation for uniform adoption by the Licensee.

The procedure of receipt of application, registration, acknowledgement, further processing, refund etc., for giving new / additional / temporary service connection are to be made more specific for clarity and transparency to the benefit of consumers.

The ambiguity in dealing with the height of the building as specified in statutory building rules has to be cleared in the interest of the consumers.

Statutory provisions for co-existence of service under tariff I-D with services under I-A in a premises where more than one residence are existing, need to be provided in the Regulation in line with the provisions of Tariff order.

The norms for allotment of land for establishment of sub-station need to be revised for practical purposes and changing conditions. The space to be offered by the developers / consumers for establishment of sub-station in applicable cases, has to be made with wide-ranged options to suit various type of sub-stations, according to the option and convenience of the consumers / developers.

The land to be offered for the sub-station has to be made to the option of consumer / developer i.e., either by gift or lease deed to safeguard the interest of the consumers who are the ultimate beneficiary of such projects.

The methodology adopted to compute the difference in cost between the conventional type SS and other type of sub- stations is to be made more specific and clear for uniform adoption, without scope for interpretation and dispute.

The existing condition of offering the land for the sub-station by IT industries needs to be done away to supplement the policies of promoting Industrial growth and employment opportunities.

The obligation of consumer to erect and maintain the service connection wire / cable connecting the meter needs to be made clearer.

The procedure for permanent dismantling of services on request by the consumer is required to be specified along with methodologies of refund of the available deposit and its time limits.

The concept of development charges, applicability and its mandated implementation is required to be made more clear and specific to avoid scope for interpretation and consumers being unduly charged by the Licensee and unnecessary litigation.

Accordingly, this amendment seeks to incorporate the above provisions in the Regulations of the Commission.

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

Dr. C. VEERAMANI, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

ANNEXURE

(By Order of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission)

Dr. C. VEERAMANI, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission.

PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY THE DIRECTOR OF STATIONERY AND PRINTING, CHENNAI ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT OF TAMIL NADU