Building above 15 meters height requires electricity connection permit in Delhi, ET RealEstate

NEW DELHI: In view of the increase in fire incidents during the summer months in the national capital, energy regulator DERC has proposed that residential buildings above 15 metres in height will have to obtain a no-objection certificate from the fire safety department to get electricity connection. The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has also considered authorising distribution companies to disconnect power supply to buildings that are to be demolished by civic agencies. DERC has issued a notification amending the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (Supply Code and Performance Standards) Regulations, 2017, in exercise of powers conferred “by Section 57 read with Section 181(2)(za) of the Electricity Act, 2003 (Act 36 of 2003)”.

As per Regulation No. 10(7) of the Principal Rules, distribution companies can disconnect the supply of electricity in case a court, DDA, MCD or a competent statutory authority issues an order for demolition of the premises, the notification said.

In addition, Regulation 10 (8) states that where the height of a dwelling unit exceeds 15 metres without parking spaces on stilts or exceeds 17.5 metres with parking spaces on stilts, connection to the electricity grid shall not be provided unless a certificate of compliance with fire safety standards has been obtained from the competent authority and must be produced upon request by the property owner.

DERC has published the draft Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (Supply Code and Performance Standards) (Sixth Amendment) Regulations, 2024, seeking suggestions and objections from stakeholders, including the public.

Discom officials said norms regarding fire safety certificates for specific buildings will become more stringent in enforcement once they become part of the DERC regulations.

The number of fire reports increased dramatically in May and June this year due to unprecedented heatwaves that led to loss of life and property in the city.

Delhi Fire Services (DFS) received 183 calls regarding fires on May 28-29. From January 1 to May 26, the department received 8,912 calls regarding fires.