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Bid to protect power consumers’ interests

Smriti Kak Ramachandran

NEW DELHI: To give a voice to the concerns of electricity consumers and protect their interests, the Delhi Government’s Power Department is exploring the possibility of setting up an office which will represent the customers at various forums.

To be designated as the Office of Electricity Consumer Advocate, the department “will defend the interest of the consumers at various courts”, said Principal Power Secretary Rakesh Mehta.

“The idea was mooted by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission and the proposal is currently being discussed. The office will have professionals on board and there will be no scope for political intervention or vested interests. We plan to have a cost accountant, an electrical engineer and a lawyer on the panel, who will hear the grievances of power consumers and represent them wherever the need arises,” Mr. Mehta said.

Pointing out that non-government organisations and individuals are not equipped to take on the power distribution companies or the establishment, DERC secretary Somit Dasgupta said: “The office can help consumers fight against even the regulatory commissions or any other higher body.”

“We have recommended that the Government should set up a body that will be funded by them to fight on behalf of the consumers. At present, there is no mechanism to help consumers fight against the power distribution companies.”

Referring to the need for having a body that fights for and protects consumer interests, Delhi University’s Prof. S. R. Khanna, who is also part of the consumer organisation VOICE, said: “Electricity companies do not take into account the concerns of consumers. When major decisions are taken whether it is tariff determinations or policies that are drafted, there is no one to represent the consumers.”

“There are,” Prof. Khanna added, “many and varied problems that power consumers face and they need someone to represent them and protect their rights.”

The problems faced by the power consumers have peaked following the privatisation of the power sector about five years ago in the Capital. From fast running meters to allegations of power theft, consumers have complained of harassment by the power distribution companies.

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