The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued the draft CERC (Cross Border Trade of Electricity) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2024, under the Electricity Act, 2003.
The draft introduces key amendments to the 2019 regulations to streamline processes and align with general network access (GNA) principles for cross-border electricity trade. The amendments replace “long-term access” with GNA and introduce temporary general network access for short-term access needs. Key definitions such as “cross border transmission link” and “dedicated transmission system” have been refined for clarity and operational efficiency. The regulations emphasise compliance with cybersecurity frameworks and updated communication standards to enhance grid reliability. They also include provisions for application and access bank guarantees to ensure accountability in connectivity and GNA approvals. Additionally, the amendments prioritise pro-rata curtailment for access prioritisation and effective grid congestion management.