Relief for SMEs as LT category limit raised to 150 kilowatts

According to a TNERC statement, the limit of electricity demand in the low tension (LT) category has been raised to 150kw from the earlier 112kw.

“From now, the industrial and other consumers can avail supply in the low tension category of supply for demand up to 150kw. Consumers with demand up to the earlier limit of 112kw will continue to remain with the erstwhile Low Tension tariff and corresponding terms and conditions,” the statement said.

Also, consumers requiring the demand above 112kw can now avail low tension supply up to 150kw, provided they offer space for erection of a distribution transformer inside their premises and pay current consumption and demand charges as that of high tension (HT) tariff. While, the cost of distribution transformer and accessories along with the cost of their erection should be borne by the licensee, the cost of portion of HT and LT lines or cables to be erected inside the consumer premises should be borne by the applicant.

“If the recorded demand exceeds the amended ceiling limit of 150kw for the third time or more, notice shall be issued to the consumers for conversion of their LT service to HT service,” the statement added. It may be noted that prior to the amendment, consumers could avail supply under low tension category only up to 112kw and were paying substantial penalty charges whenever the sanctioned demand exceeded the 112kw. Now, those consumers can opt to avail LT supply up to 150kw and avoid penalty.

TNERC also recommended to erect a single pole type distribution transformer structure wherever possible to save space and cost.