The Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission (AERC) has introduced a new set of rules for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in a move to modernize its electricity network and support renewable energy.
These fresh guidelines, the AERC (Procurement and Dispatch of Battery Energy Storage System) Regulations, 2024, will bring structure and clarity to how battery systems are installed, used, and paid for across the state.
The regulations apply to battery projects that are connected to the grid and have a minimum capacity of 1 megawatt (MW). The goal is to help store energy, especially from solar and wind, and use it when needed, such as during power cuts or peak hours.
Under the new rules, battery systems can be set up either through competitive bidding or through projects with fixed tariffs approved by the commission. Several players in the power sector, including developers, power companies, and government agencies, will need to follow these guidelines when planning and running battery storage systems.
AERC has provided simple definitions for all technical terms to avoid confusion. For example:
- Black Start: A feature that allows a system to restart the power supply without needing electricity from the grid.
- BOO & BOOT Models: These explain who will build, own, operate, and transfer the system in the long run.
- Ramp Rates: These define how quickly a battery can charge or discharge energy.
The commission also emphasized that battery projects should match local needs. That means the storage capacity must be practical for the area where it’s set up.
These new rules are expected to make Assam’s power grid more reliable, flexible, and ready for renewable energy. They’re also a key step toward building a cleaner energy future where power can be stored smartly and used when it’s needed most.
Battery storage isn’t just about storing energy. It’s about powering Assam’s next chapter in energy freedom.
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