Amid surging electricity demand across the state, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has announced stringent measures to curb unauthorised consumption beyond sanctioned limits. The corporation has amended the Supply Code 2024 and directed its officials to enforce compliance without delay. All Engineer-in-Chiefs and Chief Engineers have been sent letters in this regard on May 5.
Under the revised rules, any consumer exceeding their sanctioned load by more than 10 per cent will receive a written notice within seven days of billing. The first violation will attract a “demand surcharge” as penalty, along with a warning to reduce usage.
If the excess consumption continues in the following month, the PSPCL will levy additional fines but stop short of registering a case. However, a third violation will be treated as unauthorised use of electricity (UUE), prompting the corporation to file an FIR against the consumer for power theft.
Officials clarified that penalties will be calculated on a 30-day basis, with adjustments made against any previously paid bills or surcharges.
The process of issuing notices has been digitised to ensure speed and transparency, leaving little scope for violators to escape scrutiny.
The management has also tightened internal accountability. Record assistants are tasked with checking every bill for excess load, while senior officials must issue notices within seven days. Any delay or negligence will invite disciplinary action against the officials themselves. In cases of repeated violations, the PSPCL officials will conduct site inspections before issuing a final UUE notice.
The amendments make it mandatory for consumers to strictly adhere to their “contract demand” (sanctioned load). Small industries that cross into higher categories due to excess usage will be reclassified, with penalties applied accordingly.
Chief Engineer Jagdev Singh Hans said the measures were aimed at stabilising state’s power supply system, protecting infrastructure and safeguarding financial health during peak summer demand.
3 major reasons behind crackdown: Officials
Grid and transformer safety: Unauthorised load increases strain on local transformers, leading to burnouts, wire damage and frequent tripping, affecting entire neighbourhoods.
Voltage fluctuations: Overloading causes erratic voltage, damaging household appliances and prompting consumers to file cases against the PSPCL in consumer courts.
Revenue loss: Large factories and showrooms were taking connections under lower load categories to benefit from cheaper tariffs, costing the PSPCL crores in lost revenue.
