Study to examine agricultural consumption in Maharashtra

Agricultural loads are a large part of MSEDCL consumers, comprising 25 to 30% of the total energy consumption. There are several issues with the current situation with regard to agricultural energy consumption measurement. Though 67% of the pumps are supposed to be metered, and the rest billed on a flat rate, metering is in fact in a poor state for all consumers. Over the years doubts have been expressed over agricultural energy consumption numbers. There have been repeated demands from the MERC for a rigorous study to determine specific consumption [Ref: Case 19 of 2012, Case 100 of 2011].

Hence the distribution company, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd. (MSEDCL), commissioned a study to develop a protocol for energy consumption estimation in the state.

The study was conducted on a sample set of 100 feeders in the state. 15 engineering colleges across the state of Maharashtra were engaged in a collaborative exercise.

The estimated energy consumption for 2015-15 resulted in changes in MSEDCL energy accounting, and the study was quoted and used in regulatory commission hearings: Case No. 48 of 2016 (November 2016), and Case No. 176 of 2016 (November 2017).