POWER RESTS WITH POWER CONSUMERS, SUPPLY CODE REVISED

POWER RESTS WITH POWER CONSUMERS, SUPPLY CODE REVISED

5-APRIL-ENG 7

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA-----------------------There is welcome news for electricity consumers in Bihar. After 19 years, a revised Supply Code is set to be implemented; consequently, control over the power system will no longer reside solely with the utility providers but will shift into the hands of the consumers.

This marks a significant relief for electricity consumers across Bihar. After nearly 19 years, changes are being introduced to the state's Electricity Supply Code. With the implementation of the newly proposed ‘Bihar Electricity Supply Code, 2026,’ the accountability of the Electricity Department will be firmly established, and officials will be directly liable to pay fines in the event of delays in service delivery.

According to the new regulations, once an application is complete, it will be mandatory to provide a new electricity connection within 3 days in metropolitan areas, 7 days in other urban areas, and 15 days in rural areas. Failure to adhere to these stipulated timelines will result in the electricity utility company having to pay a fine of up to ₹1,000 per day. This new Supply Code will be grounded in digital technology, smart meters, and transparency. Its primary objective is to provide consumers with faster and superior services. In this regard, the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission has already released a draft of the new code.

In urban areas, defective or burnt-out meters must be replaced within 24 hours, while in rural areas, this must be done within 72 hours. No new connections will be issued without the installation of a smart or pre-paid meter. It will be mandatory to resolve all meter-related complaints within 30 days. Furthermore, if the balance on a pre-paid meter runs out, it will not be treated as a ‘disconnection’; electricity supply will automatically resume the moment the meter is recharged.

Consumers will have the right to reject provisional bills that are issued without an actual meter reading. If a house remains vacant for an extended period, the electricity connection will not be disconnected provided the fixed charges are duly paid. Consumers will also possess the right to request the relocation of a transformer within 30 days, subject to the payment of the prescribed fee. With the implementation of these new regulations, it is evident that consumers can now look forward to enjoying greater rights and improved services within the electricity supply system.

There had been a long-standing demand to revise the regulations, which had remained unchanged for nearly 19 years. The implementation of the new code will bring transparency to the operations of electricity distribution companies and provide direct benefits to consumers. The Commission has uploaded the draft to its website. The general public may submit suggestions until April 7, 2026. Furthermore, a public hearing will be held in Patna on April 16, during which consumers will be able to directly present their views.