The state-run Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) will have to wait until January for the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission?s (CERC) approval for an inter-state trading licence. MIDC has been granted three months to submit the state government?s notification authorising it to trade electricity. The state government proposes to issue a notification under the Maharashtra Industrial Development Act, 1961 to authorise trading of electricity to the MIDC.
The CERC in its order issued last week has convened the next hearing on the matter on January 22 next year.
During the hearing, the MIDC submitted the copy of a letter dated October 16 from the state industries secretary addressed to its CEO about the proposed notification. The industries secretary has also noted that the MIDC Act, 1961 needs to be amended for authorising corporation to trade in electricity. The matter is under the state government?s consideration.
MIDC, which is a nodal agency of the Maharashtra government to encourage industries in the state, has sought the trading licence for non-interrupted power supply to industrial units in the state. However, the CERC observed, ?It appears to us that its intent would be served better by becoming a distribution licensee/franchisee. On the other hand, as a trader, under the present regulations, it would only be able to serve as an inter mediatory between a buyer and a seller. This may be kept in view by the applicant while pursuing its case.?