Months on, PSPCL yet to adopt automatic compensation system

PSERC had asked the corporation to implement it by Feb, but to no avail

- Hillary Victor

MOHALI: Even as Punjab reels under frequent power cuts and consumers face numerous electricity-related issues, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has yet to implement the notified Supply Code 2024, which mandates automatic compensation for violations of minimum standards of performance.

The Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) had notified the Supply Code 2024 in November 2024, laying down minimum performance standards. The code prescribes automatic compensation ranging from ₹100 to ₹10,000 for certain services, while manual compensation is applicable for others.

As per the notification, the automatic compensation mechanism was to come into force three months after the notification, i.e., from February 14. However, more than three months later, the PSPCL has failed to implement it.

The services eligible for compensation include delay in restoring power supply, non-resolution of meter-related complaints, delay in releasing new electricity connections or additional load, delay in change of name or shifting of lines and complaints related to incorrect bills, etc.