Law Updates

Subject

Summary: The Ministry of Power has granted Section 164 authorization under the Electricity Act, 2003, to Project Nine Renewable Power Private Limited. This approval allows the company to lay overhead transmission lines for its 450 MW solar project in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The order empowers the company with the same rights as a telegraph authority under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, for laying electric lines. The authorization remains valid for 25 years, provided that several compliance conditions are met. Project Nine must get approvals from local bodies, railways, and highway authorities before construction. It must also follow Central Government inspection norms, seek civil aviation and defence clearances, and comply with the Supreme Court’s directives on the Great Indian Bustard protection. This move reinforces India’s renewable power infrastructure and supports the government’s commitment to sustainable energy expansion across key solar zones in Rajasthan.

Subject

Summary: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has proposed the BEE (Labeling Fees) Regulations, 2025, which aims to regularize the structure of fees under its standards and labeling programme. The regulations apply to all mandatory and voluntary devices listed under Schedule A and B. Fundamental provisions contain a one-time application fee of Rs 5,000 for company registration, a label security deposit of Rs 5 lakh per appliance (Rs 1 lakh for small-scale industries), and Rs 5,000 label permission fee per application. The renewal fee is Rs 1,000, as long as there is no alteration in the star rating. Label fees for compulsory and voluntary devices are payable quarterly, with penalties for delay in payment. Failure to adhere may result in loss of the security deposit and public notification of defaulters. License holders must also provide verified production data certified by a Chartered Accountant. This draft has been published for public feedback within 30 days of its Gazette notification. All payments will be made electronically.  

Subject

Summary: The Central Government has issued amendments to a previous Ministry of Power notification under clause (a) of section 14 of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001. These amendments, made in consultation with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, revise certain conditions related to designated consumers and energy consumption principles. The alterations aim to improve compliance and reporting procedures for energy efficiency in specific sectors. Updated responsibilities may include revised energy savings targets, compulsory audits, and performance monitoring requirements. The amendments are now in effect as per their publication in the Gazette of India.