AP Chambers flags MSME, renewable energy concerns in representations
The Energy Committee of the Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce & Industry Federation (AP Chambers) has submitted representations to the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the Ministry of Power Ministry of Power, DISCOMs, and other agencies, highlighting issues affecting MSMEs and the renewable energy sector.
The Chamber welcomed recent State measures to reduce power costs, including a 13 paise per unit cut in FPCCA charges and the absorption of ₹4,498 crore in true-up charges, stating that these steps have eased the burden on industry and improved investor confidence.
It noted Andhra Pradesh’s growing attractiveness for renewable energy investment and its potential to emerge as a major green energy hub. However, it stressed the need for further reforms to achieve the State’s target of 30 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Among key proposals, the Committee recommended increasing the net metering limit from 500 kW to 1 MW, stating that the current cap is inadequate for MSME operational requirements. It also called for greater transparency in Time-of-Day (ToD) billing and cautioned against additional levies on rooftop solar consumers, saying such charges could slow clean energy adoption.
The Committee also sought transitional relief for projects affected by ALMM-related issues. To streamline approvals, it proposed decentralising electrical inspection powers by delegating them to DISCOM Superintending Engineers.
It further suggested setting up dedicated MSME solar parks within existing industrial clusters to support clean energy ecosystem development.
The Chamber also called for data-driven policymaking, time-bound grievance redressal, improved power quality, reduced interruptions in 33 kV industrial feeders, and upgrading of grid infrastructure.
Reiterating that affordable and reliable power is critical for MSME growth and industrial competitiveness, AP Chambers expressed confidence that the proposed reforms would encourage investment, generate employment, and accelerate clean energy growth in Andhra Pradesh.
The deliberations were led by AP Chambers President Polturi Bhaskara Rao, Energy Committee Chairman Koti Rao Peravali, Vice Chairman B. Phani Chandra, and other committee members.