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KERC proposes self‑certification for new electricity connections in Karnataka
✍️ The Hindu
🗓 08 Sep 2026, 10:33 AM
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The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission has floated a draft rule allowing consumers to self‑certify new power connections, a move welcomed by users but opposed by contractors and industry experts.
Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has released a draft proposal that would let residential and commercial consumers certify the technical compliance of new electricity connections themselves, bypassing the traditional contractor‑driven inspection process. The regulator says the measure aims to reduce delays, cut costs for end‑users and streamline the connection‑granting workflow.
Consumer groups have welcomed the change, arguing that self‑certification could speed up the often‑lengthy waiting period for new power supply and lower the fees charged by private wiring contractors. They contend that modern metering and safety devices make it feasible for informed users to verify standards without compromising safety.
However, electricians, wiring contractors and several industry experts have raised concerns, warning that the proposal could compromise installation quality and increase the risk of electrical hazards. They argue that professional certification ensures adherence to safety norms and that the shift could erode their livelihood.
KERC has invited public comments on the draft for a 30‑day period before finalising the rule. The commission will assess feedback from both consumer advocates and trade bodies before deciding whether to adopt the self‑certification framework.
If implemented, the policy could reshape Karnataka’s power‑connection landscape, potentially setting a precedent for other Indian states grappling with similar bottlenecks in electricity supply.
Consumer groups have welcomed the change, arguing that self‑certification could speed up the often‑lengthy waiting period for new power supply and lower the fees charged by private wiring contractors. They contend that modern metering and safety devices make it feasible for informed users to verify standards without compromising safety.
However, electricians, wiring contractors and several industry experts have raised concerns, warning that the proposal could compromise installation quality and increase the risk of electrical hazards. They argue that professional certification ensures adherence to safety norms and that the shift could erode their livelihood.
KERC has invited public comments on the draft for a 30‑day period before finalising the rule. The commission will assess feedback from both consumer advocates and trade bodies before deciding whether to adopt the self‑certification framework.
If implemented, the policy could reshape Karnataka’s power‑connection landscape, potentially setting a precedent for other Indian states grappling with similar bottlenecks in electricity supply.