MSEDCL seeks revision of ASC charges

Mumbai, May 8 (UNI) Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) is awaiting the decision of Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) on its petition regarding the low Additional Supply Charges (AEC) and absence of mechanism to recover the cost of expensive power.

MSEDCL feels that the ASC rates for cost of power is unrealistic and very low at Rs 5.36 paise per unit.

''If electricity from our grid is overdrawn, we can charge only Rs 5.36 paise per unit. But, if we do the same from other grid, we have to pay Rs 7-8 per unit,'' sources said.

According to MSEDCL, it may not be in a position to procure power if the ASC charges are not revised.

In the petition, MSEDCL has projected quantum of costly power purchase. However, in the fast changing scenario in the power market, especially with regard to availability of power from Ratnagiri Gas and Power Purchase Ltd (RGPPL) and its timings, the situation has to be reviewed periodically.

MSEDCL has requested MERC to fix the ASC rates to realistic values and also revise the quantum of power under 'Costly Power Purchase' head. MSEDCL has urged the Commission to re-introduce incremental ASC mechanism for costly power purchase, sources added.

UNI