OERC Vacancy Delays Tariff Decisions, ₹30,000-Cr Projects
- The prolonged vacancy in the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) chairperson’s post has slowed key regulatory decisions and delayed investment proposals worth nearly ₹30,000 crore, raising concerns over the upcoming annual electricity tariff process.
Former Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena resigned from the post on May 25, 2026, around 14 months after taking charge on March 28, 2025. Although the Energy Department invited applications on July 9 and extended the deadline twice, the selection committee has not yet finalised a successor. A scheduled meeting last month was also postponed.
The delay has reportedly held up 12 important regulatory orders. Several investment proposals worth approximately ₹30,000 crore are also awaiting approval despite completion of public hearings, according to power analyst Ananda Mohapatra.
The vacancy comes at a crucial time, as power utilities, including OPGC, OHPC, GRIDCO, four distribution companies, OPTCL and the State Load Despatch Centre, must submit their annual revenue and tariff proposals by November 30. Public hearings generally begin in February, with final tariff orders issued by the last week of March and implemented from April 1.
OERC is additionally facing a staff shortage, with only seven officers available against 22 sanctioned positions. Three advisory posts, four director-level posts and two joint director positions are vacant, while the secretary’s post is being managed on an officiating basis.
Under Section 85 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the selection process should begin six months before a scheduled vacancy, while a successor must be appointed within four months in cases of resignation or premature death.
Mohapatra has also questioned whether a newly appointed chairperson would get sufficient time to understand the complex technical, commercial and legal issues before the next tariff hearings begin.
