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The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) is hearing a dispute between Cleanmax Vayu Private Limited and Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO) regarding the commissioning and connectivity of an evacuation line for a renewable energy project. Cleanmax filed a petition under Section 86(1)(c) and (f) of the Electricity Act, 2003, seeking an extension of time for commissioning its evacuation infrastructure, citing unforeseen delays. The company also requested an interim stay on any adverse action by GETCO.
The case revolves around the delay in the approval and construction of bays and metering systems necessary for power evacuation. Cleanmax argued that the delay was due to regulatory hurdles, vendor approval issues, and the requirement to coordinate with other generators for common infrastructure. The company also cited changes in government policies related to cross-border business, which impacted their ability to procure necessary equipment.
GETCO, on the other hand, maintained that the delay was due to inaction on Cleanmax’s part. The utility argued that Cleanmax failed to secure the required approvals on time and did not act promptly to resolve the issues. GETCO further stated that it had complied with all regulatory directives and made its best efforts to facilitate the project. Additionally, the company highlighted that it allows temporary use of its bays for power evacuation but retains the right to reclaim them when needed.
During the hearing, the commission noted that both parties had raised several procedural and technical concerns regarding the allocation and reallocation of bays, approval of vendors, and sharing of infrastructure among multiple generators. The commission directed GETCO to submit additional clarifications, particularly regarding the allocation of bays, charges recovered from developers, and compliance with regulatory guidelines.
Given the urgency of the matter, as Cleanmax’s connectivity was set to be revoked on January 27, 2025, the commission ordered GETCO to maintain the status quo until the next hearing on February 27, 2025. This decision prevents GETCO from taking any coercive action against Cleanmax, such as revoking its connectivity or reallocating bays to other developers.
The case highlights the complexities involved in renewable energy grid integration, particularly in the coordination between private developers and state transmission utilities. It underscores the importance of timely regulatory approvals and clear procedures for infrastructure sharing. The final decision in this matter will have implications for renewable energy projects facing similar connectivity and evacuation challenges in Gujarat and other states.
