KERC (Forecasting, Scheduling, Deviation Settlement Mechanism and related matters for Sellers of Wind, Solar and WS-Hybrid Generation sources) Regulations, 2026 – EQ

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) issued final regulations in 2026 that replace the 2015 rules for forecasting, scheduling, and deviation settlement mechanism (DSM) applicable to sellers of wind, solar, and wind‑solar hybrid generation sources. The regulations set applicability thresholds of 10 MW for wind, 5 MW for solar, and 5 MW for hybrid projects, with solar projects below 5 MW exempt. Key changes include a tighter deviation tolerance band of ±5 % for solar generators, a zero‑scheduled generation clause that assigns a deemed 1 MW schedule to prevent gaming, adoption of scheduled generation as the denominator for DSM charges, and an annual financial cap of 3 paise per unit on total deviation charges. Deviation charges are slab‑based: nil for errors ≤5 %, Rs.0.25/unit for 5‑15 %, plus Rs.0.50/unit for 15‑25 %, and an additional Rs.0.75/unit beyond 25 %. A deviation pool account managed by the State Load Despatch Centre collects charges, payable within 10 days with interest for delays, and funds are used for grid improvements. Operational requirements mandate week‑ahead, day‑ahead, and intra‑day forecasts, registration of a single Qualified Coordinating Agency per pooling station, installation of 0.2s class special energy meters with AMR/IoT, compliance with CEA technical standards, and provisions for curtailment and short‑term open access transactions. The regulations aim to improve forecasting accuracy, limit financial exposure, enforce operational discipline, ensure transparency, and encourage investment in advanced forecasting and metering infrastructure for renewable generators in Karnataka.

(Source：Eqmagpro)