Chandigarh, August 17 – Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) Chairman Nand Lal Sharma said that Haryana has carved out a distinct reputation in the country through consistent reforms in the power sector and the adoption of consumer-friendly policies. Haryana was among the pioneering states to implement the Electricity Reforms Act.
Under the Haryana Electricity Reforms Act, 1997, HERC was notified on August 16, 1998, and formally commenced functioning on August 17, 1998. Over the past 27 years, the Commission has been regulating the electricity sector through its regulations, making periodic amendments to safeguard consumer rights and ensure viability and effectiveness.
Mr. Sharma highlighted that, after Odisha, Haryana was the second state to restructure its electricity board by separating generation, transmission, and distribution functions, and by establishing an independent regulatory commission. Following the enactment of the Electricity Act, 2003, regulatory commissions have been constituted in every state across the country.
He added that ensuring quality and uninterrupted power supply in Haryana is the responsibility of the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN) and the Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN). Currently, the state has more than 8.19 million electricity consumers, served through 21 operation circles, 63 operation divisions, and 282 operation sub-divisions under UHBVN and DHBVN.
For consumer grievance redressal, the Commission has strengthened the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forums (CGRFs), with 21 forums at the circle level, 4 at the zonal level, and 2 at the corporate level. If a consumer is dissatisfied with the decision of a CGRF, they may appeal before the Electricity Ombudsman.
Reiterating the objectives of the Electricity Act, 2003, Mr. Sharma said the law seeks to promote competition in generation, transmission, and distribution, while also ensuring consumer protection, transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the power sector.
He further informed that the State Electricity Regulatory Commission comprises one Chairperson and two Members. At present, Mr. Mukesh Garg, with a legal background, is serving as a Member.
On the occasion of the 27th Foundation Day, Mr. Nand Lal Sharma extended his best wishes to all electricity consumers, officers, employees, and stakeholders.
