The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) has issued a request to its high-tension electricity consumers, urging them to switch to their own generator sets during peak evening hours. This advisory, communicated through messages to consumers across various circles over the past two weeks, specifically targets the period between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., though some areas have extended this request to cover 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Officials from the TNPDCL have framed this as a suggestion rather than a mandate. However, the request has raised concerns among industrial and commercial consumers, who highlight the significant cost implications and operational challenges associated with relying on generator sets. N. Pradeep, secretary of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Coimbatore, noted that while consumers are not outright refusing the request, they are expressing apprehension about its feasibility and impact on their businesses. He emphasized the need for a temporary solution that encourages the use of alternative power sources, suggesting that the TNPDCL, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC), and the State government should explore such measures.
The economic burden of using generators is substantial. A foundry owner pointed out that while grid power costs approximately ₹7 per unit, operating a generator can escalate to around ₹16 per unit. Furthermore, he stated that generators are often insufficient to support the complex production processes integral to foundries, indicating a potential disruption to manufacturing operations.
Durai Palaniswamy, chairman of the Southern India Mills’ Association, appealed to the government for a continuous power supply to high-tension consumers. He echoed the concerns about viability, estimating that the increased production cost due to generator usage could reach ₹30 per unit, a figure deemed unsustainable for the manufacturing sector. Palaniswamy suggested that consumers with dedicated feeders should be allowed to procure their power independently, and that load shedding should be avoided for them. For others, he proposed that the government consider providing financial assistance to make the use of diesel for generators economically feasible.
Adding to the strain, the TNPDCL has also proposed an additional surcharge of 63 paise per unit for high-tension consumers who procure electricity through open access. This proposal, submitted to the TNERC, aims to cover fixed costs incurred by the utility under existing power purchase agreements when consumers source power externally. TNPDCL estimates a net stranded cost of ₹180.91 crore for the period of October 2025 to March 2026, attributing this to underutilized contracted capacity due to open access consumption. The utility argues that while consumers meet their needs from other sources, it continues to bear fixed costs, necessitating the surcharge to balance its financial obligations.
This proposed surcharge follows a previous request by TNPDCL for a nil additional surcharge for the period of April to September 2026, based on data indicating zero standard cost after adjustments. However, the discom informed the TNERC that ₹282.64 crore related to stranded costs for October 2025 to March 2026 remained unrecovered, pending a decision on an earlier petition. The utility has invited comments from stakeholders on this latest proposal, highlighting the ongoing complexities in managing power supply and costs for major industrial and commercial consumers.
The broader context of power management in Tamil Nadu includes ongoing efforts by Tangedco (Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation) to enhance energy efficiency and manage demand. Initiatives such as installing motion sensors in offices and promoting the use of LED lights have been implemented to reduce consumption. Tangedco has also focused on improving power quality for high-tension consumers, issuing directives for the installation of power quality meters and clarifying harmonic levels. These measures, while aimed at optimizing the power grid, also underscore the continuous challenges faced in meeting the state’s growing energy demands.
The Chenab Times News Desk