On January 21, 2021, the FERC Commissioner, Neil Chatterjee and Pradeep Kumar Pujari, chairperson of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) of India, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the FERC and the CERC to share regulatory experiences and practices. This MOU is the product of three years of discussions among the Commissioner, the Chairperson, and staff from both agencies and details a variety of issues ranging from development and monitoring of power markets and issues related to: (1) regulatory initiatives for facilitating investment in the power sector; (2) integrating renewable energy into the electric grid; (3) transmission pricing; (4) grid reliability; (5) technical training, and (6) regulatory practices.
Actions under this agreement may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- participating in seminars, visits, and exchanges
- developing programs of mutual interest and, where appropriate, hold these programs locally to enhance participation
- providing speakers on energy issues and other personnel matters (management or technical) when practical and of mutual interest
- identifying energy-related issues and develop topics and possible agendas for the exchange of information and regulatory practices in areas of mutual interest
- organizing visits by Commissioners and/or staff to participate in activities at each other’s facilities
This agreement also addresses:
- development and oversight of power markets and related issues
- regulatory oversight of grid reliability
- technical training in relevant areas
- regulatory practices and functioning
- regulatory initiatives for facilitating investment in the power sector
- integrating energy from renewable sources into the electricity grid
- pricing of transmission services
The agreement conveys the substantial measures India has taken to enhance the operation, reliability, and efficiency of its energy sector. The FERC regards India as a strong partner to the US and fostering a solid and lasting relationship with India’s regulators has been the foundation of the FERC’s worldwide portfolio. India has proposed impactful goals for its energy sector and will be required to make considerable modifications to its energy regulations. The CERC will play a critical role as India proceeds with this transition, and the MOU will allow the FERC the opportunity to formally share experiences and expertise with the CERC.
For further information, contact Mary O’Driscoll, Director, by phone at (202) 502-8680 or by email at mediadl@ferc.gov.
Sources:
FERC Enters into MOU with India to Share Regulatory Experiences, Practices (ferc.gov)
Memorandum of Understanding Between Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (India) and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (USA) (ferc.gov)
