Punjab has introduced new rules for electricity connections, as per a notification issued by the electricity regulator. These new guidelines will benefit a wide range of consumers, from ordinary households to those using electric vehicles, charitable hospitals, industries, farms, and solid waste plants.
Under the new rules, industries, charitable hospitals, and farms can now take up to 1000 kW of additional electricity load without the need to set up their own substation. Single-phase meters will now be limited to loads of up to 7 kW, down from the previous 10 kW limit. For higher loads, a three-phase meter will be required. These changes aim to streamline the process and provide more accessible electricity connections to a wider range of consumers in Punjab.
Additionally, for homes and shops located under the “Red Line” area in villages, electricity connections will now require a letter of approval from the respective Panchayats. They will also need to obtain an Occupancy Certificate from the Panchayat. This document, along with the application form, must be submitted to the Powercom.
Tenants living in rented buildings, residents of flats, or those in commercial buildings who want separate charging facilities for their electric vehicles (EVs) will be provided a separate EV charging connection.
New Categories for EV Charging Connections:
- Single-phase connection: Industry will get single-phase connections up to 7 kVA, which will include electric vehicles. Agriculture up to 2 BHP will also be covered under this category.
- Three-phase connection: This will cater to loads from 7 kW to 100 kVA, including EVs, homes, industries, businesses, agricultural connections (2 to 134 BHP), streetlights, and bulk supply connections.
- Large supply connection: Industrial consumers will now be able to receive power directly from 11 kV lines without needing their own substation. This category includes high-power agricultural connections, charitable hospitals, compost plants, and solid waste plants.
Applicants will need to provide identification documents like voter ID, passport, ration card, driving license, or a government-issued identity card. Proof of ownership or occupancy, such as registry papers, recent Jamabandi (land record), or a certificate from a gazetted officer or Tehsildar, will be required. If the property falls under the “Red Line” area, documents like General Power of Attorney, Letter of Allotment with Possession Letter, recent water supply bill, telephone bill, municipal tax receipt, or gas connection copy must be provided.
In new colonies, wiring will be done according to plot sizes. Domestic plots of 250-350 sq. yards will need up to 12 kV, while flats of 350 sq. yards will require 4 kV. Industrial plots of 250 sq. yards will need up to 15 kW.
The time to release electricity connections:
- 5 days for home, shop, or office connections.
- 10 days for connections requiring 11 kV lines.
- 20 days for connections requiring 33 kV lines.