Thiruvananthapuram: In its recent interim order concerning the conditions for the retail supply of electricity, the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) has directed the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) to facilitate the transition of its heavy-load domestic consumers to a 3-phase connection.

The interim order dated 31-10-23 noted that “a good percentage of domestic consumers are using air conditioners, cookers, and washing machines. Hence, all these consumers consume more than 5 kW of load and need to switch over to 3-phase connection”.

It may be noted that as per the provisions of the Supply Code, 2024, the LT consumers (domestic consumers) with a connected load of 5kW and above shall be provided with a phase connection.  In this regard, KSEB has been asked to initiate a special drive to identify consumers with loads above 5kW who are still relying on single-phase connections.  

The conversion rate is Rs 4,600. Electricity meter rent will increase from Rs 6 to Rs 15.  Apart from this, security deposit will also see a hike. The conversion will also increase power bills as the tariff changes. 

The Commission in the interim order specifically pointed out that transition should be pushed so that it should not cause hardship to consumers. 

The regulatory body has advised KSEB to deploy measures such as voluntary disclosure scheme and offering discounts in expense for conversion.

The conversion will help KSEB to maintain load balance, thereby avoiding losses in the distribution network and improving the network.