Haryana Electricity Commission Issues Comprehensive Directives to Enhance Power Sector Performance
The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) has taken decisive steps to overhaul service delivery and institutional accountability within the state's power sector. In a significant move aimed at improving consumer experience and operational efficiency, the commission has issued a series of binding directives to all state power utilities during its recent State Advisory Committee meeting.
Three-Pronged Approach for Systemic Improvement
HERC Chairman Nand Lal Sharma has mandated the implementation of three critical frameworks that will fundamentally transform how power utilities operate and serve consumers across Haryana. These directives represent a comprehensive strategy to address long-standing issues in electricity service provision.
The commission has ordered the establishment of a Consumer Satisfaction Index (CSI) that must be implemented within three months, with mandatory monthly monitoring at all organizational levels. This systematic assessment will track consumer satisfaction from the Junior Engineer level up through sub-divisions, divisions, and entire utility organizations, ensuring accountability permeates every layer of the power distribution system.
Performance Management and Standardization Initiatives
To institutionalize target-driven performance, HERC has directed the adoption of a Balanced Scorecard (BSC) framework within four months. This strategic performance management tool will establish clear targets and monitor outcomes across both financial and non-financial parameters. Performance indicators will be tracked at all levels, from field functionaries to top management, covering critical areas including:
- Consumer satisfaction metrics
- Operational efficiency benchmarks
- Safety protocol compliance
- Loss reduction targets
- Service quality standards
- Capacity building initiatives
On the standardization front, the commission noted that only Haryana Power Generation Corporation Limited currently holds ISO certification among state power utilities. HERC has now directed Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Ltd, Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Ltd, and Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam to obtain ISO certification to promote transparency, uniform procedures, and adoption of industry best practices.
Addressing Financial and Operational Challenges
During the 33rd meeting of the State Advisory Committee, Chairman Sharma emphasized the need for cost optimization through strengthened functioning of the Haryana Power Purchase Centre. This joint forum of UHBVN and DHBVN must work to prevent financial losses arising from inefficient short- and medium-term power procurement. The commission advised adopting best practices from states like Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh to minimize avoidable burdens on consumers.
The meeting also addressed several pressing operational concerns:
- Loss Reduction: DHBVN Managing Director Vikram Singh reported ongoing measures to further reduce Aggregate Technical and Commercial losses.
- Revenue Requirements: UHBVNL and DHBVNL have projected an Annual Revenue Requirement of ₹51,156.71 crore for the upcoming financial year.
- Litigation Concerns: The commission expressed serious concern over increasing litigation, particularly billing-related disputes, and directed utilities to implement systemic corrective measures.
- Safety Issues: HERC sought details of fatal electrical accidents and ordered immediate remedial action, including addressing sagging overhead lines and unsafe conditions near transformers and exposed wiring.
Enhanced Monitoring for Renewable Energy Initiatives
The commission identified significant gaps in post-commissioning monitoring of rooftop solar installations. To address this, utilities have been directed to conduct random quality inspections of 10-25 percent of vendor-executed works, display vendor performance ratings publicly, and integrate solar-related complaints into the common grievance redressal system.
Chairman Sharma reiterated that timely implementation of all State Advisory Committee decisions is mandatory for power utilities. He emphasized that addressing practical consumer issues and improving service delivery must remain the foremost priority for Haryana's electricity providers, with strict adherence to established timelines for all mandated reforms.
