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DERC Moves to Relax Voltage Norms for Green Energy Open Access

The proposal allows consumers with 100 kW or higher load to procure renewable power without voltage-level restrictions.

The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission has proposed a key amendment to simplify access to renewable energy by removing the existing requirement that consumers must be connected at 11 kV or higher voltage levels to qualify for green energy open access.

Under the revised framework, any consumer with a contracted demand or sanctioned load of 100 kW or more will be eligible for green energy open access, regardless of their connection voltage. This eligibility can be met through a single connection or by aggregating multiple connections within the same distribution licensee’s network. The definitions of both “entity” and “Green Energy Open Access Consumer” have been updated to reflect this load-based criterion.

The proposed amendment to Regulation 8 further clarifies that qualifying consumers will be able to source renewable energy through open access without any voltage-related limitations. This change is expected to make it easier for commercial and industrial users to transition toward cleaner energy options.

In addition, the draft highlights that there will be no restriction on load for consumers setting up captive green energy projects. This provision gives industries greater flexibility to scale their renewable energy capacity in line with operational requirements.

The proposal is part of a broader effort by the regulator to accelerate renewable energy adoption in Delhi by easing procedural barriers, expanding market access, and encouraging decentralized clean energy deployment.