Bhubaneswar, 5th Sept 2025: Despite having a provision for compensation to electricity consumers for service disruptions since 2004, power distribution companies in Odisha have failed to implement it effectively for the past 21 years. These consumer rights have largely remained confined to documents like the Electricity Supply Code.
Now, the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) has taken steps to revamp the system. It has issued a draft notification for 2025, updating the outdated Performance Standards Regulations of 2004. The commission is inviting public opinion on 33 key service-related issues, such as:
Power interruptions
New connections
Disconnection and reconnection
Meter-related problems
Ownership transfer
Billing issues
Voltage fluctuations
The performance benchmarks will hold distribution companies accountable, and aim to improve transparency and service quality.
The draft regulations propose new performance standards, and the OERC has opened the floor for suggestions and objections from stakeholders. Interested individuals can submit their feedback on the draft regulations by September 22.
This move follows a complaint filed by energy analyst Anand Mahapatra, which the OERC has acknowledged. Responding to it, the commission decided to renew and modernize the old regulations.
The move is expected to empower consumers and enforce accountability on the part of electricity distribution companies in Odisha.
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