Bescom Sets July 6 Deadline for OC Exemption Scheme Applications
Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) has urged consumers to apply for power supply under the Occupancy Certificate (OC) exemption scheme by July 6, 2026. The scheme allows property owners without an OC to obtain electricity connections, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria.
According to Bescom, implementation of the scheme has already begun for properties that fall within the eligibility criteria. The move aims to regularize power connections for residential and commercial buildings that lack an OC, a common issue in Karnataka.
Eligibility and Application Process
Property owners who have not obtained an OC from the local municipal authority can apply for a temporary power connection under this scheme. The application must be submitted online through the Bescom portal or at designated customer service centers. Applicants need to provide documents such as property tax receipts, building plan approval, and an indemnity bond.
Bescom has clarified that the scheme is applicable only for properties constructed before a specified date, as per government regulations. The exemption is valid for a limited period, after which property owners must obtain a regular OC to continue the power supply.
Impact and Benefits
The OC exemption scheme is expected to benefit thousands of property owners in Karnataka who have been unable to get power connections due to missing OCs. This includes many residential apartments and commercial complexes in Bengaluru and other cities. Bescom officials estimate that over 10,000 applications have been received so far, with more expected before the deadline.
A Bescom spokesperson stated, "We encourage all eligible consumers to apply before July 6 to avoid any disruption in power supply. The scheme is designed to help property owners regularize their connections without legal hurdles."
Government Initiative to Regularize Properties
The scheme is part of the Karnataka government's broader effort to regularize unauthorized constructions and provide basic amenities. The state government has extended the OC exemption scheme multiple times to accommodate more applicants. Bescom has set up special counters and helplines to assist consumers with the application process.
Consumers are advised to ensure their documents are in order and to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute rush. For further details, they can visit the official Bescom website or contact their local office.
