CHANDIGARH: Punjab Power Minister Sanjeev Arora announced a significant pro-people decision of the Punjab Government, stating that the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) will now release electricity connections without NOC after applicants furnish a mandatory undertaking.
The move, he said, reflects Hon'ble National Convenor Sh. Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s commitment to providing basic amenities to citizens without delay, while ensuring adherence to legal processes.
Arora said that earlier, applicants were required to submit approvals such as NOC, Regularisation Certificate or Sanctioned Building Plan issued by local authorities like MCs, GMADA, GLADA, JDA, ADA, PDA or BDA before obtaining a power connection. “However, due to the non-availability or delay of these approvals from various departments, people were facing extreme hardship. CM Bhagwant Mann directed us to find a practical solution. Today, that solution has been implemented, ” he said.
As per the revised instructions, electricity supply connection will now be released to the all applicants, as per the applicable provisions of Supply Code 2024, on furnishing an undertaking by applicant that his electricity connection is liable to be disconnected, if the premise is subsequently declared illegal or unauthorized by any appropriate authority.
Further, applicant has to pay an amount equal to Service Connection Charges as security to cover dismantlement charges in addition to all the normal applicable charges payable as per the Supply Code 2024.
Arora clarified that the new mechanism balances public convenience with necessary safeguards. “The Mann Government believes every household deserves access to essential services. This decision ensures citizens are not deprived of electricity, ” he added.
The Power Minister further directed officials to ensure strict and meticulous compliance with the modified guidelines, emphasizing transparency and uniform implementation across the state.
He further said that simplification of application forms to get electricity connections and digitalisation of records are being done on priority basis. Earlier, PSPCL had decided that applicants or consumers seeking new connections or alterations in load up to 50 kW under the LT (Low Tension) category will not be required to submit any test report from a licensed electrical contractor or any self-certification/signed document for the electrical installation of the premises. Instead, there will be a declaration in the online application form wherein the applicant will give declaration “That the internal wiring at the premises has been got executed and tested by a Licensed Electrical Contractor/Designated Officer of the Govt. and test certificate is available with the applicant.”