Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission

The Electricity Distribution Code, 2015

(re-examined and modified)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER : 1: PRELIMINARY
1. Short title, commencement and application...........................................................................1

CHAPTER: 2: DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

2. Definitions..............................................................................................................................2
3. Abbreviations.........................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER: 3: DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION
4. Objectives.............................................................................................................................11
5. Scope....................................................................................................................................11
6. Distribution Coordination Committee .................................................................................11
7. Constitution of the Distribution Coordination Committe.....................................................11
8. Terms of office of the DCC members..................................................................................12
9. DCC support staff and operating cost..................................................................................12
10. DCC rules and procedures.................................................................................................12
11. Distribution Coordination Sub-committees.......................................................................12
12. Distribution Code revision process....................................................................................13
13. Settlement of disputes .......................................................................................................13
14. Distribution management
reports .......................................................................................13
CHAPTER: 4: DISTRIBUTION PLANNING
15. Introduction ........................................................................................................................15
16. Scope ..................................................................................................................................15
17. Objectives ..........................................................................................................................15
18. Development of distribution planning procedure..............................................................16
19. Criteria for development of distribution system ................................................................16
20. Database management .......................................................................................................17
21. Load data research .............................................................................................................17
22. Demand estimation ............................................................................................................18
23. Opportunity statement ........................................................................................................19
24. Technical and design criteria .............................................................................................19
25. Voltage regulation ..............................................................................................................20
26. Energy
audit .......................................................................................................................21
CHAPTER: 5: CONNECTIVITY CONDITIONS

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27. Introduction.......................................................................................................................22
28. Objectives ..........................................................................................................................22
29. Scope ..................................................................................................................................22
30. Electricity supply procedures .............................................................................................22
31. Responsibility for operational safety .................................................................................23
32. Connection agreement .......................................................................................................23
33. Connection points and boundaries .....................................................................................23
34. Connected equipment requirements ...................................................................................24
35. Connected plant restrictions ...............................................................................................25
36. Interface with generators and CPPs ...................................................................................26
CHAPTER: 6: DISTRIBUTION OPERATION PROCEDURES
37. Introduction ........................................................................................................................28
38. Objectives ..........................................................................................................................28
39. Operating manuals ............................................................................................................28
40. Demand estimation ...........................................................................................................29
41. Demand management.........................................................................................................29
42. Outage planning ................................................................................................................29
43. Contingency planning .......................................................................................................30
44. Monitoring and control of voltage, frequency and power factor .......................................31
45. Operational coordination ...................................................................................................32
46. Safety management system................................................................................................32
47. Operation boundary...........................................................................................................32
48. Safety coordinator..............................................................................................................32
49. Safety precautions document.............................................................................................32
50. Safety manual.....................................................................................................................33
51. Significant incident or accident reporting ..........................................................................34
52. Reporting procedure...........................................................................................................34
53. Reporting form...................................................................................................................34
54. Accident reporting..............................................................................................................34
55. Maintenance and testing ...................................................................................................35
56. Construction and maintenance practices............................................................................35
57. Preventive maintenance schedule and inspection manual..................................................35
58. Maintenance record............................................................................................................36
59. Tools and spares .................................................................................................................36
60. Training ..............................................................................................................................37
61. Nomenclatures and identification coding ..........................................................................37

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62. Conservation of energy ......................................................................................................37
63. Operational
communication ...............................................................................................37
CHAPTER: 7: DISTRIBUTION PROTECTION REQUIREMENT
64. Introduction ........................................................................................................................38
65. Objective ............................................................................................................................38
66. General principles ..............................................................................................................38
67. Protection manual ..............................................................................................................38
68. Protection at inter-connection point of EHV GSS .............................................................38
69. Line protrction 132 kV, 33 kV and 11 kV .........................................................................39
70. Transformer protection...... ................................................................................................39
71. Generator protection ..........................................................................................................40
72. Protection coordination ......................................................................................................40
CHAPTER: 8: PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOE DISTRIBUTION
73. Introduction .......................................................................................................................41
74.
Objectives .........................................................................................................................41
A.- Power Quality Standards

75. Power quality problems......................................................................................................41

76. Voltage variations...............................................................................................................41
77. Harmonies..........................................................................................................................42
78. Voltage unbalance........................................................................................................... ..42
79. Voltage fluctuation and flicker
severity.......................................................................... ..42
B.- Reliability Standards

80. Criteria for establishing distribution reliability standards..................................................43

81. Distribution reliability indices............................................................................................43
82. Inclusions and exclusions of interruption events...............................................................43
83. Submission of distribution reliability reports and performance targets.............................44

C.- System Loss Standards

84. System loss classification...................................................................................................44

85. System loss cap................................................................................................................. 44
D.- Safety Standards

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86. Safety compliance..............................................................................................................44
87. Measurement of performance for personnel safety............................................................45
88. Submission of safety records and reports...........................................................................45
89. Electric and magnetic field (EMF) ....................................................................................45
90. Noise
level .........................................................................................................................45
CHAPTER: 9: ELECTRICITY SUPPLY PEOCEDURES

PART-I

CLASSIFICATION OF CONSUMER

91. Classification of consumers................................................................................................46

92. Residential..........................................................................................................................47
93. Agricultural pumping........................................................................................................ 47
94. Small industry.................................................................................................................... 47
95. Non-residential and charitable institution..........................................................................47
96. Commercial........................................................................................................................47
97. Large industry/complex.....................................................................................................47
98. Street light..........................................................................................................................47
99. Water pump........................................................................................................................47
100. Temporary connection.....................................................................................................47
101. Classification of electricity utilities (distribution licensees)............................................48
102. Consumers under special
agreement............................................................................... 48 103. Reclassification of
consumers......................................................................................... 48

PART-II
POWER SUPPLY

104. Application for Supply of power .....................................................................................48

105. Documentary evidence of lawful occupation may be dispensed with.............................49
106. Date of filing application................................................................................................. 49
107. Execution of indemnity bond.......................................................................................... 49
108. Distribution licensee's right of access over any other person's land............................... 49
109. Connection for industrial or commercial purpose............................................................49
110. Applicants in arrears of electricity dues, etc................................................................... 50

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111. Service distance................................................................................................................50
112. Time frame for communication to the applicant of the result of his application.............50
113. Demand note ....................................................................................................................50
114. Distribution licensee's obligation to
supply .....................................................................51 115.
Agreement ........................................................................................................................51
116. Supplementary agreement............................................................................................... 52
117. When agreement shall be deemed to have been terminated ...........................................52
118. Record of disconnection and
reconnection ......................................................................52 119. Security
deposit ................................................................................................................52 120.
Service line.......................................................................................................................53
121. Point of
supply .................................................................................................................54 122.
Wiring on consumer's premises .......................................................................................54
PART-III

APPARATUS ON CONSUMER'S PREMISES

123. Installation of equipments and apparatus of the consumer ..............................................54

124. AC Motor installation ......................................................................................................55
125. Installation of equipment and apparatus of the distribution
licensee ...............................56 126. Inspection and testing for new
connections .....................................................................56 127. Approval of consumers
installation .................................................................................58 128. Commencement of
supply ...............................................................................................58 129. Distribution
licensee's supply mains and apparatus .........................................................58
130. Safety of installation........................................................................................................59
131. Fuse failure.......................................................................................................................59
132. Access to consumer’s
premises .......................................................................................59 133. Preparation of
inventory of distribution licensee's installation or inspection report .......60 134. Addition
and alteration to consumer’s installation ..........................................................60

PART-IV
METERING

135. Operational metering .......................................................................................................60

136. Tariff and commercial metering ......................................................................................61
137. Measurement at energy import/export .............................................................................62
139. Meters in case of medium or high voltage supply............................................................63
140. Sealing of meters..............................................................................................................63
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141. Check meters....................................................................................................................63
142. Inspection of meters and measures to be taken when they are found defective
tempered, missing, etc......................................................................................................64
143. Billing with defective or losr meters................................................................................65
144. Reading of meters.............................................................................................................66
145. Fees for testing.................................................................................................................66
146. Loss accounting............................................................................................................... 66

PART-V

CONTRACT DEMAND

147. Connected load and contract demand ..............................................................................67

148. Reduction of contract
demand .........................................................................................67 149. Enhancement of
contract demand ....................................................................................68 PART-VI

SYSTEM OF SUPPLY

150. System of supply..............................................................................................................68

151. Power factor .....................................................................................................................69
152. Balance of
load ................................................................................................................70 153.
Parallel operation with distribution licensee's system .....................................................70

PART-VII

CHARGES FOR SUPPLY

154. Tariffs and charges ...........................................................................................................70

155. Minimum monthly charges ..............................................................................................71
156. Demand charges ...............................................................................................................71
157. Service charges.................................................................................................................71
158. Energy charges .................................................................................................................71
159. Other
charges ...................................................................................................................71 160.
Statutory levies.................................................................................................................71
161. Prepaid

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 meters ..................................................................................................................71 162.
Rounding of charges ........................................................................................................72

PART-VIII

PAYMENT OF BILLS

163. Despatch of bills...............................................................................................................72

164. Billing.............................................................................................................................. 72
165. Disputed or erroneous bill................................................................................................72
166. Payment............................................................................................................................73
167. Adjustment of the amount paid....................................................................................... 73
168. Consequence of negligence or failure in making payment of charges,
etc......................73 169.
Rebate .............................................................................................................. ..….........73
170. Delayed payment
surcharge .............................................................................................74 171. Installment
facilities .........................................................................................................74 172.
Recovery of arrears ..........................................................................................................74

PART-IX

PROHIBITIONS

173. Assignment without permission .......................................................................................74

174. Re-sale, transfer, dishonest abstraction and theft of energy ............................................74
175. Penal charges ...................................................................................................................75
176. Force majeure and restriction on power supply ...............................................................75

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CHAPTER: 10: GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
177. Construction, installation, protection, operation and maintenance of electric supply
lines and apparatus-..........................................................................................................77
178. Service lines and apparatus on consumer’s premises ......................................................77
179. Cut-out on consumer’s premises ......................................................................................77
180. Identification of earthed and earthed neutral conductors and position of switches
and cut-outs therein ..........................................................................................................78
181. Earthed terminal on consumer’s premises .......................................................................78
182. Accessibility of bare conductors ......................................................................................79
183. Danger notices .................................................................................................................79
184. Handling of electric supply lines and apparatus ..............................................................79
185. Supply to vehicles, cranes, etc. ........................................................................................80
186. Cables for portable or transportable apparatus ................................................................80
187. Cables protected by bituminous materials .......................................................................80
188. Street boxes ......................................................................................................................80
189. Distinction of different circuits ........................................................................................81
190. Distinction of the installations having more than one feed..............................................81
191. Accidental charge.............................................................................................................81
192. Provisions applicable to protective equipment ................................................................81
193. Instructions for restoration of persons suffering from electric shock ..............................82
194. Precautions to be adopted by consumers, owners, occupiers, electrical contractors,
electrical workmen and licensees .....................................................................................82 195.
Periodical inspection and testing of installation ..............................................................82

CHAPTER: 11: GENERAL CONDITIONS RELATING TO SUPPLY AND USE

OF ENERGY
196. Testing of consumer’s installation ...................................................................................84
197. Installation and testing of generating units ......................................................................84
198. Precautions against leakage before connection ................................................................84
199. Leakage on consumer’s premises ....................................................................................85
200. Supply and use of energy .................................................................................................85
201. Additional provisions for supply in multi-storied (six or more storied) building...........86
202. Provisions applicable to medium, high or extra-high voltage installations .....................87
203. Appeal to Commission in regard to defects .....................................................................88
204. Cost of inspection and test of consumer’s installation.....................................................88
205. Declared voltage of supply to consumer ..........................................................................89
206. Declared frequency of supply to consumer .....................................................................89
207. Sealing of meters and cut-outs .........................................................................................89
208. Meters, maximum demand indicators and other apparatus on consumer’s premsises ....89
209. Point of commencement of supply ..................................................................................90
210. Precautions against failure of supply, notice of
failures ..................................................90

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CHAPTER: 12: ELECTRIC SUPPLY LINES, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS
FOR LOW VOLTAGE
211. Test for resistance of insulation .......................................................................................91
212. Connection with earth ......................................................................................................91
213. Earth leakage protective device .......................................................................................93
214. Poly phase systems at low voltage ...................................................................................93
CHAPTER: 13: ELECTRIC SUPPLY LINES, SYSTEMS AND APPARATU
FOR MEDIUM AND HIGH VOLTAGES
215. Approval of installation ...................................................................................................94
216. Use of energy at medium and high voltage .....................................................................94
217. Additional provisions for use of energy at high and extra-high voltage ..........................97
218. Testing, operation and maintenance ................................................................................98
219. Metal sheathed electric supply lines, precautions against leakage ..................................99
220. Connection with earth. .....................................................................................................99
221. General conditions as to transformation and control of energy .....................................100
222. Pole type substations ......................................................................................................101
223. Condensers .....................................................................................................................101
224. Additional provisions for supply to medium voltage luminous tube sign installation ..101
225. Additional provisions for supply to high voltage electrode boilers ...............................102
226. Supply to X-ray and high frequency installation ...........................................................102

CHAPTER: 14: OVERHEAD LINES, UNDERGROUND CABLES AND

GENERATING STATIONS
227. Material and strength .....................................................................................................105
228.
Joints ..............................................................................................................................105
229. Maximum stresses: factors of
safety ..............................................................................105 230. Clearance above ground
of the lowest conductor ..........................................................106
231. Clearance from buildings of low and medium voltage lines and service lines..............106
232. Clearances from buildings of high voltage lines............................................................107
233. Conductors at different voltages on same
supports .......................................................107
234. Erection of or alteration to buildings, structures, flood banks and elevation of roads...107
235. Transporting and storing of material near overhead lines .............................................108
236. Clearances:
General. ......................................................................................................109 237. Routes:
Proximity to aerodromes ...................................................................................109 238.
Maximum interval between supports .............................................................................109
239. Conditions to apply where telecommunication lines and power lines are carried on
the same supports ...........................................................................................................109
240. Lines crossing or approaching each other ......................................................................109

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241. Guarding ........................................................................................................................110
242. Service-lines from overhead lines ..................................................................................111
243. Earthing ..........................................................................................................................111
244. Safety and protective devices .........................................................................................111
245. Protection against lightning ...........................................................................................111
246. Unused overhead lines ...................................................................................................112
CHAPTER: 15: PRECAUTIONS TO BE ADOPTED IN MINES AND OIL
FIELDS
247. Application of the Chapter .............................................................................................113
248. Responsibility for observance ........................................................................................113
249. Notices ...........................................................................................................................113
250. Plans ...............................................................................................................................113
251. Lighting, communications and fire precautions.............................................................114
252. Isolation and fixing of transformer, switchgear, etc. .....................................................114
253. Method of earthing .........................................................................................................114
254. Protective equipment .....................................................................................................114
255. Earthing metal, etc. ........................................................................................................114
256. Voltage limits .................................................................................................................115
257. Transformers ..................................................................................................................115
258. Switchgear and terminals ...............................................................................................115
259. Disconnection of supply ................................................................................................116
260. Cables .............................................................................................................................116
261. Flexible cables ...............................................................................................................117
262. Portable and transportable machines .............................................................................118
263. Sundry precautions.........................................................................................................118
264. Precautions where gas exists ..........................................................................................119
265. Shot-firing ......................................................................................................................120
266. Signaling ........................................................................................................................120
267. Haulage ..........................................................................................................................121
268. Earthing of neutral points...............................................................................................121
269. Supervision ....................................................................................................................121
270. Exemptions ....................................................................................................................121
CHAPTER: 16: CONSUMER PROTECTION
271. Consumer's representation .............................................................................................122
272. Citizen charter ................................................................................................................122
273. Professional negligence, misconduct, offence, etc. .......................................................122

CHAPTER: 17: FINANCIAL STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION LICENSEES

274. Introduction ....................................................................................................................123
275.
Objectives ......................................................................................................................123
276. Financial ratios............................................................................................................. 123
277. Leverage ratios...............................................................................................................123

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278. Liquidity ratios...............................................................................................................124
279. Financial efficiency ratios..............................................................................................124
280. Profitability ratios...........................................................................................................125
281. Submission and evaluation.............................................................................................125
282. Uniform system of accounts (USoAC) ..........................................................................125

CHAPTER: 18: MISCELLANEOUS

283. Power to remove difficulties ..........................................................................................126
284. Power of the distribution licensee relating to its business of supplying
electricity. ......126
285. Overriding effect of other laws ......................................................................................126
286. Mode of submission of data...........................................................................................126
287. Service of notice.............................................................................................................126
288. Non-compliance with the Code..................................................................................... 127
LIST OF ANNEXURES

Annexure-1 : Load data for demands of 5 MW and above to be furnished by the 128
user/consumer
Annexure-2 : System data to be provided to the intending 130
user/consumer with contract demand of 5 MW or above

Annexure-3 : System data of the whole of distribution licensee's system 131

Annexure-4 : Embedded generator unit-wise data 132

Annexure-5 : Site Responsibility Schedule 134
Annexure-6 : Essential loads and priority of restoration 136
Annexure-7 : Form for operational event reporting 137
Annexure-8 : Form for reporting electrical accidents 138
Annexure-9 : Form of electricity supply agreement 141
Annexure-10 : Application Form 144

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 BANGLADESH ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION

TCB Bhaban (3rd Floor), 1 Karwan Bazar, Dhaka-1215

NOTIFICATION

Dated............................................../..........................................
No......................In exercise of the powers conferred by section 59 of the Bangladesh
Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003 (Act No. 13 of 2003), read with clause (f) of section
22 thereof, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission is pleased to make the following
regulations, namely:-

CHAPTER 1

PRELIMINARY

1. Short title, commencement and application.- (1) These regulations may be called the Bangladesh Energy
Regulatory Commission Electricity Distribution Code, 2015.
(2) They shall come into force immediately.
(3) They shall apply to all distribution utilities and system participants, including the following, namely:-
(a) distribution licensees (i.e. distribution utilities);
(b) open access customers connected to distribution systems;
(c) other licensees for distribution connected to distribution systems; (d) embedded generators; and (e) large consumers.

CHAPTER 2

DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

2. Definitions.- In these regulations, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context,-
(1) “accessory” means any device, other than current-using equipment, associated with
such equipment or with wiring of an installation;
(2) “Act” means the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003 (Act No. 13 of
2003);
(3) “active power” means the product of voltage and the in-phase component of
alternating current measured in units of watts and standard multiples thereof; (4)
“agreement” means an agreement entered into by a distribution licensee with a
consumer or user;
(5) “ambient temperature” means the temperature of the air or other medium where the
equipment is to be used;
(6) “Annexure” means an Annexure to these regulations;
(7) “apparatus” means electrical apparatus and includes all machines, fittings, accessories
and appliances in which conductors are used;
(8) “apparent power” means the product of the root-mean-square (RMS) or effective value
of the current and the root-mean-square value of the voltage. For AC circuits or
systems, it is the square root of the sum of the squares of the active and reactive power
and is measured in kilo volt-ampere (kVA) or multiples thereof;
(9) “appliance” means an item of current-using equipment other than a luminaire or an
independent motor;
(10) “area of supply” means the geographical area within which a distribution licensee is
authorized by his license to supply electrical energy;
(11) “authorized officer” or “authorized person” means an officer or a person of the
distribution licensee, by whatever name he may be designated, who has been authorized
by the distribution licensee to do or perform in any area the functions of an authorized
officer or person under this Code;
(12) “BERC” or “Commission” means the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
constituted under the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003 (Act
No. 13 of 2003);
(13) “black start” means the process of recovery from total system blackout using a
generating unit with the capability to start and synchronize without an external power
supply;
(14) “breakdown” means an occurrence relating to the equipment of the electric energy
supply system including electrical line that prevents its normal functioning; (15) “captive
generating plant” means a power plant set up by any person to generate electricity
primarily for his own use and includes a power plant set up by any co- operative society
or association of persons for generating electricity primarily for use of members of such
cooperative society or association;
(16) “circuit” means an arrangement of conductor or conductors for the purpose of
conveying energy and forming a system or branch of a system;
(17) “circuit breaker” means a device, capable of making and breaking the circuit under all
normal conditions, and unless otherwise specified, so designed to break current
automatically under abnormal conditions;
(18) “commissioning” means putting into service a new or idled equipment that has passed
all required tests;
(19) “competent person” means a person who is lawfully competent to do anything under
any provision of this Code and/or the Electricity Rules,1937;
(20) “conductor” means any wire, cable, bar, tube, rail or plate used for conducting
electrical energy and so arranged as to be electrically connected to a system;
(21) “connection agreement” means an agreement setting out terms relating to a
connection with the distribution system;
(22) “connection point” means the point of commencement of supply from or to the grid
or the distribution system by the user;

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(23) “consumer” means a person who receives energy supplied by a distribution licensee
in the premises or installation owned or possessed by him under relevant laws, rules,
regulations, bylaws or any document having the force of law;
(24) “demand” means the power at a given instant or averaged over a specified interval of
time that is actually delivered or is expected to be delivered by an electrical equipment or
supply system expressed either in kilo-Volt Ampere (kVA), or kilo-
Watts (kW) or kVAr and multiples thereof;
(25) “demand control” means any or all of the following methods of achieving reduction
in demand, namely:-
(a) consumer demand management initiated by users;
(b) consumer voltage reduction initiated by users resulting into reduction of load
(other than following an instruction from the NLDC);
(c) consumer demand reduction by disconnection implemented by users (other than following an instruction from the NLDC);
(d) consumer demand reduction instructed by the NLDC;
(e) automatic under-frequency demand disconnection or automatic load shading;
(f) emergency manual demand disconnection or manual load shading (MLS); (26) “designated officer” means an officer designated by appropriate
authority to exercise any power under this Code;
(27) “disconnection” means the opening of an electrical circuit to isolate an electrical
system or equipment from a power source;
(28) “dispatch” means the apportioning of the total demand on a power system among
the various generating plants to achieve the objectives of system operations;
(29) “distribution board” means an assembly containing switching or protective devices
(eg. fuses, circuit-breakers, residential current operated devices) associated with one
or more outgoing circuits fed from one or more incoming circuits, together with
terminals for the neutral and protective circuit conductors, it may be included in the
board or may be provided separately;
(30) “Distribution Code” or “Code” means the set of rules, requirements, procedures,
and standards laid down in these regulations governing electric utilities in the operation
and maintenance of their distribution systems, and defining the relationship of the
distribution systems with the facilities or installations of the parties connected thereto; (31)
“Distribution Coordination Committee” means the committee constituted under
regulation 7;
(32) “distribution licensee” means a licensee authorized to operate and maintain a
distribution system for supplying electricity to the consumers in its area of supply and
includes any of its successor entity;
(33) “distribution of electricity” means the conveyance of electric power by a
distribution utility through its distribution system;
(34) “distribution operations” means the rules and procedures to be followed by all
users of the distributions system to ensure that reliable distribution services are
achieved for all distribution consumers;
(35) “distribution planning ” means the technical and design criteria and procedures to
be applied in planning the development or reinforcement of a distribution system;
(36) “distribution system” means the system of wires and associated facilities between the
delivery points on the transmission lines or the generating station connection and the
point of connection to the installation of the consumers;

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(37) “earthing” means connecting of the exposed-conductive-parts of an installation to the
main earthing terminal of that installation;
(38) “electricity system” means a system under the control of a generating company or
distribution licensee or transmission licensee, as the case may be, having one or more-
(a) generating stations; or
(b) transmission lines; or
(c) distribution lines and substations, and when used in the context of a utility, the entire electricity system within the territories
thereof;
(39) “embedded” means having a direct electrical connection to a distribution system or
the system of other users to which consumers and/or power stations are connected but
with no other connection to the grid;
(40) “embedded generator” means a person or entity who generates electricity and whose
generating units are directly connected to a distribution system and includes consumer
captive generating plants;
(41) “end-user” means any person or entity requiring the supply and delivery of electricity
for his or its own use;
(42) “equipment” means all apparatus, machines, etc. used as part of, or in connection
with, an electrical installation;
(43) “event” means an unscheduled or unplanned occurrence of an abrupt change or
disturbance in the system due to fault, equipment outage or adverse weather condition;
(44) “extra high voltage” means voltage(s) of 132 kV or higher at which the transmission
system operates;
(45) “extra high voltage consumer” means a consumer to whom electricity supply is
provided by the distribution licensee from the transmission system at extra high voltage; the
EHV consumer is a consumer of the distribution licensee;
(46) “fault” means a circuit condition in which current flows through an abnormal or
unintended path; this may result from an insulation failure or abridging of insulation;
conventionally the impendence between live conductors or between live conductor and
exposed-or extraneous-conductive-parts at the fault position is considered negligible; (47) “fault
level” means the current expected to flow into a short circuit at a stated point on the system
and which may be expressed in KA or in MVA;
(48) “frequency” means the number of complete cycles of alternating current or voltage
per unit time, usually measured in cycle per second or Hertz;
(49) “generate” means to produce electricity from a generating station for the purpose of
giving supply to any premises or enabling a supply to be so given;
(50) “generating company” or “generator” means any company or body corporate or
association or body of individuals, whether incorporated or not, or artificial juridical
person, which owns or operates or maintains a generating station;
(51) “generating station” or “power station” means any station for generating electricity,
including any building and plant with step-up transformer, switch-gear, switch yard, cables
or other appurtenant equipment, if any, used for that purpose and the site thereof; a site
intended to be used for a generating station, and any building used for housing the
operating staff of a generating station, and where electricity is generated by water-power,
includes penstocks, head and tail works, main and regulating reservoirs, dams and other
hydraulic works, but does not in any case include any substation;

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(52) “generating unit” means a conversion apparatus including auxiliary and associated
equipment, functioning as a single entity, used to produce electric energy; (53) “generation of
electricity” means the production of electricity by a generating company or a co-generation
facility;
(54) “grid” means the high voltage backbone system of inter-connected transmission lines,
substations and generating plants; also known as the transmission system;
(55) “Grid Code” means the set of rules, requirements, procedures approved by the
Commission covering all material technical aspects relating to connections to and the
operation of the grid, the use of a distribution system, or (in so far as relevant to the
operation and use of a distribution system) the operation of electric lines and electrical
plant connected to the distribution system, the distribution systems, or the system of
any supplier, as laid down in the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
Electricity Grid Code, 2015;
(56) “grid standards” means the standards specified by the Commission;
(57) “grounding” means a conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, by
which an electrical circuit or equipment is connected to the ground or to some
conducting body of relatively large extent that serves in place of the ground; (58) “high
voltage” means a voltage, which is equal to or higher than 33,000 Volts 3 phase
50 Hertz under normal conditions and does not exceed ± 5% of nominal value at any
time;
(59) “high voltage consumer” or “high tension consumer” (HT consumer) means a
consumer who obtains supply of electricity from the distribution licensee at high
voltage;
(60) “high voltage line” means an electric line or cable which operates at high voltage
under normal conditions;
(61)“ insulation” means suitable non-conductive material enclosing, surrounding or
supporting a conductor;
(62) “isolation” means the electrical separation of a part or component from the rest of the
electrical system to ensure safety when that part or component is to be maintained or
when electric service is not required;
(63) “large consumer” means a consumer with a sanctioned load of 5 MW or above;
(64) “load” means an entity or electrical equipment that consumes electrical energy; (65) “low
voltage” means a voltage which is 230/ 400 Volts 1-phase/ 3-phase 50 Hertz under
normal conditions and does not exceed ± 5% of nominal value at any time; (66) “low voltage
consumer” or “low tension consumer” means a consumer who obtains supply of
electricity from the distribution licensee at low voltage;
(67) “LV switchgear and control gear assembly” means a combination of one or more
low- voltage switching device together with associated control, measuring, signaling, and
protective, regulating equipment, etc;
(68) “manual load shedding” (MLS) means the manual disconnection of a user’s circuit
by tripping under-frequency relays or otherwise to remove the circuit’s load from the
system;
(69) “material effect” means a resulting condition that would require works or change in
the normal operation of the plant and/or equipment at the connection point or site of
connection which would involve considerable incremental cost as agreed between the
distributor and users;

5
(70) “medium voltage” means a voltage which is equal to or higher than 6,350/ 11,000
volts 1-phase/3-phase 50 Hertz under normal conditions and does not exceed ± 5% of
nominal value at any time;
(71) “minimum generation” means the minimum stable demand that a generating unit can
safely maintain for an indefinite period;
(72) “National Load Dispatch Centre” or “NLDC” means the centre located in the control
room of the transmission licensee operating round the clock for the purpose of managing
the integrated operation of power system and coordinating the generation, transmission,
distribution and load requirements as per economic dispatch;
(73) “normal operating frequency” means the frequency band specified in the Grid Code
for secured and reliable grid operation; the system normally operates between 49 Hz to 51
Hz;
(74) “occupier” means the owner or person in lawful occupation of the premises where
electrical energy supplied by the distribution licensee is used or intended to be used; (75) “open
access” means the non-discriminatory provision for use of transmission lines or distribution
system or associated facilities with such lines or system by any licensee or consumer or a
person engaged in generation of electricity in accordance with the regulations made by the
Commission;
(76) “open access consumer” means a consumer who is eligible to receive supply of electricity from a person other than the distribution
licensee of his area of supply; (77) “open access customer” means a person using or intending to use the transmission system or the
distribution system or both of the licensees for transmission or wheeling of electricity;
(78) “operation” means a scheduled or planned action relating to the operation of a system;
(79) “operational boundary” means the boundary between the equipment operated by the
distributor or a user and the equipment operated by another, as specified in the relevant site
responsibility schedules;
(80) “operational effect” means any effect on the operation that causes the systems of the
distributors, the system operator or a user to operate differently from the way in which
they would be or may have been normally operated;
(81) “outage” means the state of a component, such as an equipment or a plant, when it is
not available to perform its intended function due to some event directly associated
with that component;
(82) “out-of-synchronism” means the conditions where a system or generating unit cannot
meet the requirements for it to be synchronized with the grid;
(83) “ownership boundary” means the boundary between the equipment owned by one
distributor or user and the equipment owned by another;
(84) “planned maintenance” means an outage of a generating plant, of a part of the grid, or
of a part of a distribution system due to maintenance, coordinated by the system
operator, distributor, or generators, as the case may be;
(85) “plant” means any fixed and movable items, other than an equipment, used in the
generation, supply, and/or transmission of electricity;
(86) “point of commencement of supply” means the point at the incoming terminal of the
cut-out/other isolating device installed by the consumer after the meter;
(87) “power factor” means the ratio of active power to apparent power;
(88) “power system” means all aspects of generation, transmission, distribution and supply
of electricity and includes one or more of the following, namely:-
(a) generating stations;

6
 (b) transmission or main transmission lines;
(c) substations;
(d) tie-lines;
(e) load dispatch activities;
(f) mains or distribution mains;
(g) electric supply lines;
(h) overhead lines;
(i) service lines, and
(j) works;
(89) “primary distribution system” means a system in the distribution licensee’s distribution
system consisting of cables, service lines and overhead lines, and metering equipment
having an operating voltage of 11kV used for transmitting electricity to the consumers
from the 33/11kV substations of the distribution licensee;
(90) “reactive energy” means the integral of the reactive power with respect to time
measured in VArh, or multiples thereof;
(91) “reactive power” means the component of electrical power representing the
alternating exchange of stored energy (inductive or capacitive) between sources and
loads or between two systems, measured in VAr, or multiples thereof; for AC circuits
or systems, it is the product of the RMS voltage and the RMS value of the out-of-
phase component of alternating current. In a three-phase system, it is the sum of the
reactive power of the individual phases;
(92) “safety code” means the code for safety made by the Commission for the distribution
licensee;
(93) “secondary distribution system” means a system in the distribution licensee’s
distribution system consisting of service lines and overhead lines having an operating
voltage of 230/400V used for transmitting electricity from the distribution
transformers to the service mains of the consumers;
(94) “significant incident” means an event on the distribution system or the system of the
user that has a significant effect on the other’s system;
(95) “substation” means a station for transforming or converting electricity for the
transmission or distribution thereof and includes transformers, converters, switchgears,
capacitors, synchronous condensers, structures, cable and other appurtenant equipment
and any building used for that purpose and the site thereof;
(96) “sub-transmission system” means the intermediate system between the transmission
system and primary distribution system of the total power system consisting of high
voltage electric lines being operated at high voltage (excluding generator
interconnection facilities) owned and/or operated by the distribution licensee for the
purposes of distribution of electricity from one substation to another substation or to a
consumer or from any external interconnection equipment up to the interconnection
with the distribution system, and any plant and apparatus and meters owned or used by
the distribution licensee in connection with the transmission and distribution of
electricity;
(97) “synchronized” means the state where connected alternating current systems,
machines, or a combination of these operate at the same frequency, and where the
phase angle displacements between voltages in them are constant or vary about a
steady and stable average value;

7
(98) “system control” means the administrative and other arrangements established to
maintain the proper operation, safety, and security of the system;
(99) “system reliability” means the ability of a power system to continuously supply power
to its consumers despite the occurrence of multiple credible contingency events;
(100) “total system” means the grid and all user systems connected to it;
(101) “total system blackout” means the situation that exists when all generation has ceased
and, therefore, the total system has shutdown so that it is not possible for the total
system to begin functioning again without the system operator’s directions relating to
a black start;
(102) “transformer” means an electrical device or equipment that converts voltage and
current from one level to another;
(103) “transmission of electricity” means conveyance of electricity through the high voltage
backbone system/grid system;
(104) “transmission system” means the system consisting of extra high voltage electric lines
being operated at EHV (excluding generator interconnection facilities) owned and/or
operated by the transmission licensee for the purposes of the transmission of electricity
from one power station to a substation or to another power station or between
substations or to or from any external interconnection equipment up to the
interconnection with the distribution system, any plant and apparatus and meters
owned or used by the transmission licensee in connection with the transmission of
electricity, but shall not include any part of the distribution licensee’s distribution
system;
(105) “transmission utility” means the utility having license from the Commission for
transmission of electricity;
(106) “user” means a person, including generating companies, distribution licensee and
open access customers who uses the distribution system or transmission system and
related facilities and includes a person to whom the Distribution Code and/or Grid
Code apply;
(107) “user system” means any system owned or operated by a user of the grid (or
distribution system) where the user is involved in generation and/or distribution of
electricity and is connected to the grid;
(108) “voltage” means the electromotive force (emf) or electric potential difference between
two points, which causes the flow of electric current in an electric circuit.

3. Abbreviations.- The abbreviations given in the left side below shall have the meaning or complete form as given in the right side thereof, namely:-

AC Alternating Current
BERC Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission
BSTI Bangladesh Standard and Testing Institution
CEO Chief Executive Officer
CPM Critical Path Method
CPP Captive Power Plant
DCC Distribution Coordination Committee
DISCO Distribution Company
DO Distribution Operations
DOM Distribution Operation Manual
DP Distribution Planning

8
 DSM Demand Side Management
EHV Extra High Voltage
ESU Electric Supply Unite
HT High Tension
HV High Voltage
Hz Hertz (Cycles per seconds)
IDMT Inverse Definite Minimum Time
IEC International Electro-technical Commission
IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
kA Kilo Ampere

kV Kilo Volt
kVA Kilo Volt Ampere
kW KiloWatt
kWh Kilowatt-hour
LT Low Tension
LV Low Voltage
MLS Manual Load Shedding
MV Medium Voltage
MVA Mega Volt-ampere
MVAr MegaVAr
MVArh Mega-VAr-hour
MW Megawatt
MWh Megawatt-hour
NDR Neutral Displacement Relay
NLDC National Load Despatch Centre
PERT Program Evaluation and Review Technique
PGCB Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited
RMS Root Mean Squere
TS Transmission System
TU Transmission Utility
UFR Under-frequency Relay
VR Voltage Regulation
W Watt
WASA Water And Sewerage Authority
Wh Watt-hour
X/R Reactance/Resistance
CHAPTER 3

DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION

4. Objectives.- The objectives of this Chapter are-

(a) to ensure that the distribution licensee and all users of the distribution system are
represented and involved in setting standards and procedures for distribution
system management and operations.

9
(b) to specify the process for the settlement of dispute that may arise when a
provision of the Distribution Code is misapplied or violated.

5. Scope.- This Chapter applies to all participants of the distribution system, including-
(a) distribution licensees (i.e. distribution utilities);
(b) open access customers connected to distribution system;
(c) other licensees for distribution connected to distribution system; (d) embedded
generators; and (e) large consumers.

6. Distribution Coordination Committee.- There shall be a committee to be called the Distribution Coordination Committee to ensure that all
distribution licensees and users of the distribution system may participate and involve themselves in setting standards and procedures for
distribution system management and operation. Such Committee shall carry out the following functions, namely:-
(a) to coordinate the Distribution Code enforcement;
(b) to review the Distribution Code, associated standards and their implementation; (c) to
provide guidance to distribution licensee and users in implementation,
performance and interpretation of the provisions of the Distribution Code; (d) to
review proposals for revision of the Distribution Code and to recommend
appropriate action to BERC; and
(e) to monitor and report on overall distribution system operation.

7. Constitution of the Distribution Coordination Committee.- (1) The Distribution

Coordination Committee shall consist of the following members, namely:- (a)
Member (Engineering) or Executive Director (Technical) or Member
(Distribution), as the care may be, of each distribution licensee functioning as
distribution utility, ex-officio;
(b) Executive Director of the transmission licensee functioning as transmission
utility, ex-officio;
(c) one member nominated by the BERC from amongst its officers;
(d) one member nominated by the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh; and (e) one
member from the Consumers Association of Bangladesh to be nominative by
that Association.
(2) One of the members under clause (a) of sub-regulation (1) shall be the Chairman of the
Committee, who shall be appointed by the Commission, on rotation basis, for a two year term.

8. Terms of office of the DCC members.- The Distribution Coordination Committee shall be a
permanent body under this Code and all members of the Committee shall hold office until their
successors, in case of ex-officio members, take over charges in, or they, in case of other
members, are replaced by, their respective parent organizations.

9. DCC support staff and operating cost.- The distribution licensee whose Member or
Executive Director holds the office of the Chairman of DCC at a given time shall provide
secretarial staff required to support DCC operations. The cost associated with such secretarial
assistance shall also be borne by that distribution licensee.

10
10. DCC rules and procedures.- (1) The Distribution Coordination Committee shall make its
own rules and procedures relating to the conduct of its business. Such rules and procedures
shall include-
(a) establishment of a regular meeting schedule at frequencies sufficient to do the business of the Committee;
(b) developing and submitting annual distribution system operation report to
BERC; and
(c) monitoring of compliance of this Code and the established technical standards.
(2) The Committee shall operate its business on a consensus or near consensus basis rather than by
simple majority of votes.

11. Distribution Coordination Sub-committees.- (1) The Distribution Coordination Committee

may establish such sub-committees as it may consider appropriate for various functional areas.
A suggestive list of such sub-committees are given below, namely:- (a) Distribution
Technical Standards Sub-committee.- This sub-committee shall assist the DCC in
the following functions, namely:-
(i) distribution planning;
(ii) distribution connectivity criteria; (iii)
distribution operating procedures; and
(iv) distribution performance standards.
(b) Distribution Protection and Reliability Sub-committee.- This sub-committee
shall assist the DCC in the following functions, namely:-
(i) coordinating and recommending standards for distribution protection systems;
(ii) reviewing and recommending distribution reliability performance standards;
and
(iii)coordinating data compilation and submission by distribution licensees to
Commission and other agencies.
(c) Distribution Metering and Settlements Sub-committee.- This sub-committee shall
assist the DCC in the following functions, namely:-
(i) reviewing distribution metering code and standards and recommending
changes; and
(ii) acting as the dispute resolution panel for metering related disputes.
(2) The sub-committees referred to in sub-regulation (1), shall have one member from each
distribution licensee and transmission licensee to be selected by the Distribution Coordination
Committee. The rules and procedures relating to the conduct of business of such sub-
committees shall be prepared by the sub-committees themselves and shall be approved by the
DCC. The DCC may refer any matter to a sub-committee for examination and advice but is not
bound to accept the recommendations of the sub-committee.

12. Distribution Code revision process.- (1) No change in this Code, however small or large,
shall be made without being deliberated upon and agreed by the Distribution Coordination
Committee and approval of the Commission. If any distribution licensee or user believes that
changes in this Code are necessary, it/he may submit the proposed changes with supporting
arguments and data to the Distribution Coordination Committee. The Distribution Coordination
Committee may either deliberate the proposed changes itself or refer the matter to the

11
appropriate sub-committee. Any revision to this Code which the Distribution Coordination
Committee recommends shall be submitted to BERC for approval.
(2) If the Distribution Coordination Committee or its appropriate sub-committee rejects the
proposed changes, it shall justify its decision in writing to the party proposing the changes. That
party shall have the right to appeal against such decision to the BERC.

13. Settlement of disputes.- (1) In the event of any dispute between any user or consumer
and/or the distribution licensees and transmission licensee regarding interpretation of any
provision contained in this Code, any party to the dispute may refer the dispute to the
Distribution Coordination Committee for resolution. The Committee may either resolve the
dispute by itself or refer it to the Commission for decision, and the decision of the Commission
shall be final and binding on the parties.
(2) Where the Committee itself resolves the dispute, any aggrieved party may prefer an appeal
against the decision of the Committee to the Commission, and the decision of the Commission
shall be final and binding on the parties.
(3) Where any dispute arises between the parties referred to in sub-regulation (1) in relation to
anything other than interpretation of any provision of this Code, it shall be referred to the
Commission for decision which shall take appropriate measurers under the provisions of the
Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Dispute Settlement Regulations, 2014.

14. Distribution management reports.- (1) The Distribution Coordination Committee shall,
before the end of June every year, prepare a report on distribution operations for the previous
year and submit to the Commission.
(2) The distribution licensee, in whose distribution system any significant incident occurs, shall,
within one month following such incident, prepare a disturbance report and submit to the DCC
and BERC.
(3) The disturbance report should describe the causes of the disturbance or incident, the
amount and duration of any outages and recommendations (if any) for changes in operating
procedures or Code provisions. In cases where any user has knowingly violated provisions of
this Code, sanctions may be recommended as part of the disturbance report. The DCC shall
define what constitutes a significant incident.
(4) The Distribution Coordination Committee shall prepare such special reports as may be
directed by the Commission or any appropriate authority, from time to time.

12
 CHAPTER 4

DISTRIBUTION PLANNING

15. Introduction.- (1) This Chapter specifies technical and design criteria and procedures to be
followed for planning and development of the distribution system.
(2) The distribution system may necessitate extension or reinforcement for meeting longterm
demand estimation and/or requirement of the user’s system. In some cases the extension or
reinforcement of capacity of distribution system at the connection point may be needed for
reasons, but not limited to, mentioned below, namely:-
(a) a development in user’s system connected to distribution system; (b)
introduction of a new connection point between the user’s system and the
distribution system of the distribution licensee;
(c) to increase the capacity of the distribution system for meeting the security standards,
removal of constraints in operation etc. and to accommodate a general increase in
demand;
(d) the reinforcement or extension of the distribution licensee's distribution system in
view of the above requirement may involve work at the following locations, namely:-
(i) at a connection point between a user’s system and a distribution licensee’s
distribution system;
(ii) on the distribution system or other facilities which join a connection
point to the remainder of the distribution licensee's system; (iii) at or
between points on the distribution system remote from connection
points;
(e) on the distribution system or other facilities when two or more distribution
licensees are connected.

16. Scope.- This Chapter applies to the distribution licensees and all other users connected to
and utilizing distribution system including other licensees, embedded generators, open
access customers and large consumers, in so far as they affect the distribution system.

17. Objectives.- The objectives of the distribution planning are-

(a) to enable planning, design and construction of distribution system for a safe and
economical operation with specified degree of reliability conforming to the
following, namely:-
(i) safety requirements for the distribution system;
(ii) Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003 (Act No.13 of
2003), Electricity Act, 1910 ( Act No 9 of 1910), and codes,
standards, rules and regulations made thereunder;
(iii) construction standards and manuals of the distribution utilities;
(iv) relevant Bangladesh standard where applicable;
(b) to facilitate use of distribution system by a user and consumer connected to or
seeking connection with it;

13
 (c) to formulate technical conditions to be followed by respective distribution licensees and
users in meeting the standards for an efficient operation of common electrical interface;
(d) to formulate procedure for exchange of system planning data between distribution
licensee and users;
(e) to provide required information to users for connection, planning and development of
their own systems and make them compatible with the distribution system;
(f) to enable the distribution licensee in furnishing required data detailed in the Grid Code
for the purpose of planning.

18. Development of distribution planning procedure.- (1) Well-documented procedures are

essential for adopting orderly and consistent approach in planning and development of
distribution system on a long-term basis. Adherence to these procedures shall enable the
distribution licensee to produce a long-term plan of five years to develop and maintain an
efficient coordinated and economical distribution system to satisfy requirements of future
demand.
(2) The development of the distribution system must be planned sufficiently in advance allowing
adequate time to obtain the required statutory clearances, consents or way leaves, the detailed
engineering design and construction work to be carried out. The suitable management techniques
shall be implemented allowing for sufficient time for critical activities and to co-ordinate all the
activities in an efficient manner. These shall be taken care of at the time of planning itself.
(3) The distribution licensee shall develop and maintain the distribution planning procedures in
respect of the following, namely:-
(a) database management;
(b) load data research;
(c) demand estimation procedure (forecast methodology); (d) opportunity statement.
(4) The distribution licensee shall furnish the copy of the distribution planning procedures
developed in compliance with the foregoing provisions to the Commission.

19. Criteria for development of distribution system.- (1) All distribution systems shall conform
to the statutory requirements and license conditions. The distribution licensee shall develop and
maintain an efficient, secure and coordinated system of electricity supply that is economical,
reliable and safe.
(2) The development of the distribution system shall be planned sufficiently in advance allowing
adequate time to obtain required statutory clearances, consents or way leaves, the detailed engineering
design and construction work to be carried out. Action shall be initiated to augment/renovate existing
elements of the distribution system whenever load on it exceeds its specified capacity. The
management techniques such as PERT and CPM may be applied to coordinate activities in an efficient
manner at the planning stage.
(3) The distribution licensee while planning distribution system shall take the following criteria into
consideration, namely:-
(a) optimum network of sub-transmission system, primary
distribution, LT feeders and substation location and feeder
development;
(b) optimum distribution feeder voltages and conductor sizes; (c)
optimum reactive compensation.

14
(4) Requisite investment approval and other applicable sanctions shall be obtained from the
Commission.

20. Database management.- (1) The availability of accurate and reliable data is essential for
planning and development of the distribution system on long-term basis. Data management
system facilitates storage, retrieval and updating of data for complying with the requirements of
the Distribution Code and for other purposes like power system studies.
(2) The users of distribution system including embedded generators and large consumers shall
furnish required data in the Form given in Annexure 4 for long term planning by distribution
licensee. The distribution licensee shall supply system data to the users, embedded generators
and large consumers upon formal request for their planning purpose.
(3) A well maintained data management system would facilitate exchange of data between
users and distribution licensee required for long-term planning and distribution operation in an
accurate and reliable manner. This shall also help users, large consumers, open access
customers and embedded generators to have access to data, which they may require for their
planning purpose.

21. Load data research.- (1) The distribution licensee shall develop load data and load curves for
the area fed by the concerned substation of the transmission licensee based on the metering data
available at the inter-connection/interface point. This data shall be compiled for the entire area
of supply by combining the load curves of each substation feeding its distribution system.
(2) The distribution licensee shall create a load database for each consumer category for the
distribution system as a whole and update it on annual basis.
(3) Actual energy consumption in the distribution system as recorded in the energy meters
installed at connection points/interface points shall be reconciled with the actual energy
sales in overall area of supply including energy exported to other distribution licensees and
users and the energy generation by embedded generating stations. The distribution licensee
shall work out the distribution losses based on energy consumption in the distribution
system and energy billed to the consumers.
(4) Distribution losses computed from this data shall be furnished to BERC every month.
(5) A consumer seeking connection with a demand of 5 MW or above shall furnish load data to
the distribution licensee as detailed in Annexure-1. The distribution licensee shall carefully
monitor actual development of load in respect of any consumer desiring to avail load of 5
MW or above at a single point. If required by the consumer the distribution licensee shall
furnish relevant system data as detailed in Annexure 2. The distribution licensee shall
furnish relevant system data of the whole of distribution licensee’s area of supply, if
required by a consumer, as detailed in Annexure 3, on payment of such amount as may be
determined by the distribution licensee. The distribution licensee shall update the system
data at least once a year.

22. Demand estimation.- (1) The distribution licensee shall formulate an ESU (Electric Supply
Unit)/PBS-wise demand forecast to enable the transmission licensee in drawing down the
annual planning process corresponding to a 5 years forward annual plan. This shall be
formulated after considering the previous financial year as base and projecting demand for the
succeeding five years considering the overall development of various sectors in its area of
supply in succeeding five years. The distribution licensee should follow prudent practices to
arrive at load forecast for succeeding five years after considering all the aspects, viz.

15
government policy/economic development etc. During this process the distribution licensee
shall also review the status of loads materializing as per the previous load forecast. The
variation to the forecast shall be incorporated by the distribution licensee, as and when it is
known to the distribution licensee and revise the forecast annually.
(2) Energy sales in each tariff class shall be projected for succeeding five years over the
corresponding figures relating to the base year by adopting an appropriate statistical model.
(3) The projections shall take into account assumed normal growth for non-specific loads,
specific and identified loads of 1 MW and above and impact of demand side management
(DSM) and energy conservation.
(4) Aggregate energy and peak load requirement at each connection point shall be estimated
taking into account the distribution losses. The distribution licensee shall forward its approved
plans to the transmission licensee for accommodating in transmission plans.
(5) The distribution licensee shall forward demand forecast in the month of December each
year for each connection point for its area of supply, on annual basis to the transmission
licensee and BERC along with assumption data and methodology used for the forecast.
(6) The distribution licensee shall have a thorough knowledge of the nature of usage of
electricity by the consumers and the way they use electrical energy and other alternative sources
of energy in its area of supply. The load forecasting shall take into account all these along with
other conservation programs and the demand side management or off-peak usage programs
which the distribution licensee may sponsor, resulting in reduction of energy use and peak
demand of the consumers over the years.
(7) The distribution licensee shall also maintain records of captive power plants of assessed
capacity of 125 kVA and above already established in its area of supply. Type of fuel used and
the capacity of captive power plants shall be taken into account for reduction of contract
demand from distribution licensee's supply so as to correctly assess the industrial demand in its
area. Such information shall be compiled yearly and furnished to the Commission.

(8) The distribution licensee shall assess and forecast the load demand of each category of
consumers in its area of supply on annual basis or more frequently as required by the BERC.
(9) The distribution licensee shall implement an appropriate load research program for the
systematic collection of data describing consumers energy usage patterns and analysis of these
data for energy and demand forecast. For this purpose, the consumers shall be divided into all
the tariff classes and may be broadly divided in the following classes, namely:-
(a) residential sector;
(b) commercial sector;
(c) agricultural sector; (d) industrial sector.
(10) The pattern of energy consumed by each category of consumer and the load
demand, the period of peak demand etc., shall be determined on the basis of sample surveys
taking representative samples from each category for its different seasonal requirements. A
suitable questionnaire shall be prepared for these sample surveys and the data obtained shall be
analyzed using suitable statistical models. Based on this, load profiles shall be drawn for
implementing demand side management techniques to match the availability from time to time.

23. Opportunity statement.- (1) This statement provides the potential users with future power
scenario for five years in distribution system. Opportunity statement helps in deciding potential
for connection to the system, creation of new generation capacities and load on system. This

16
statement serves as the basis for the selection of the best place to connect new load or a new
generator.
(2) The distribution licensee shall prepare an opportunity statement as a part of its annual report and
shall submit to the Commission.

24. Technical and design criteria.- (1) The distribution licensee shall prepare ESU/ PBS wise
plan for distribution system and develop a system on the basis of technical and design criteria
so that demand of all the existing consumers connected or seeking connection with it shall be
met for the next five years. All the apparatus and circuits shall have adequate capacity to cater
to their need of electricity in a safe, economical and reliable manner.
(2) The load research program shall assess the following, namely:-
(a) demand at the time of system peak-daily, monthly, annually and seasonally;
(b) hourly demand for the day of the system peak-daily, monthly, annually and seasonally;
(c) category wise diversity factor or the coincidence factor and load factor;
(d) total energy consumption for each category-daily, monthly, annually and seasonally;
(e) category-wise non-coincident peak demand.
(3) Based on the results of such research the five year demand forecast shall be made using
appropriate modern forecasting tools. Optimum circuit loading and maximum number of
circuits at any electrical interface between distribution and transmission system shall
conform to requirement of all relevant codes and standards.
(4) As far as practicable and only when it is justified on a benefits/costs basis, separate circuits
shall be provided for the following, namely:-
(a) urban non-industrial power supply other than agricultural supply;
(b) industrial power supply;
(c) agricultural power supply;
(d) rural industrial power supply as well as rural residential and non- residential power supply, to avoid single phasing during peak load hours.
(5) The load shall be arranged in discrete load blocks to facilitate load management during
emergency operations. Load blocks shall depend upon availability of separate circuits.
(6) A technical feasibility report shall be prepared to finalize location of 132/33 kV and 33/11
kV substations, capacitor installations, and distribution transformers and to contain voltage
variation and energy losses within reasonable limits. The distribution licensee shall
standardize the technical requirements and specifications of main equipments including but
not limited to the following, namely:- (a) power transformers;
(b) distribution transformers;
(c) circuit breakers/reclosers/switchgear/control gear;
(d) voltage regulators;
(e) instrument transformers;
(f) earthing equipment;
(g) lightning arresters;
(h) control panels;
(i) station batteries;
(j) fire extinguishers and other safety devices;
(k) line materials (conductor, insulator, cross arms, spacers ,connector, etc);

17
(l) service line materials and accessories;
(m) energy meters, meter box and meter panel.
(7) The distribution licensee shall standardize the construction and maintenance practices and
adopt standard design layouts for lines and substations. Standard construction practices shall
be developed, among others, for the following, namely:- (a) 132 kV substation layout
and construction;
(b) 33 kV substation layout and construction;
(c) 11 kV substations;
(d) sizes of bus bar;
(e) line construction;
(f) service line construction.
(8) The planning of distribution system shall always keep in view the cost effectiveness of
achieving the distribution network performance standards and reduction in energy losses
without sacrificing the requirements of safety standards mentioned above.
(9) The distribution licensee while planning the distribution system expansion and
reinforcement shall incorporate the state of the arts technology and keep the following in
view, namely:-
(a) economic ratio of HT and LT line lengths;
(b) use of aerial bunched conductors;
(c) underground cables;
(d) adequate number of 132/33 kV, 33/11 kV and 11/0.4 kV transformers and their location at load centers; (e) use of capacitors and
capacitor banks;
(f) balancing of load between the three phases.

25. Voltage regulation.- (1) The distribution licensee shall plan and develop distribution
network so as to achieve and maintain the distribution system in accordance with the
distribution licensee performance standards specified by the Commission. The voltage
regulation (VR) on 11 kV , 33 kV and 132 kV feeders shall not exceed such value, which
makes the consumers voltage below the prescribed value when the voltages at injunction point
into distribution system are within the norms.
(2) Whenever the voltage regulation of 11 kV or 33 kV or 132 kV feeders exceeds such value
so that it is difficult to maintain the consumers voltage within prescribed limits, the distribution
licensee shall take action to bring the VR within the prescribed limit by either bifurcation of
load or by drawing additional feeder(s) or augmenting transmission capacities, etc. as may be
considered techno-economically viable. Similarly, the capacity of distribution substation or 33
kV substation or 132 kV substation shall be augmented when the load exceeds rated capacity
of the substation. A new 33/11 kV substation shall be created at the load centre in the area
where voltage regulation of various 11 kV feeders are above prescribed limit and proposal is
technically and financially viable, i.e. benefit to cost ratio is acceptable.

26. Energy audit.- (1) The distribution licensee shall carry out energy audit of the total
distribution system considering all sorts of export and import of energy. The distribution
licensee shall create ‘Responsibility Centre’ at each operating division/commercial unit/ zonal
office. A particular area fed by a 33/11 kV substation or an industrial area may also have a
responsibility center. Energy sent out on each 11 kV feeder from a substation shall be metered

18
at 11kV terminal switchgear. Monthly feeder meter readings shall be compared with energy
sales to all consumers on that feeder as per their meter readings to work out distribution feeder
losses.
(2) The responsibility centre shall carry out determination of loss on each feeder. Based on
these losses of a division/commercial unit/zonal office, hierarchy circle and zone shall be
compiled and an analysis of data generated at utility level shall be carried out and reported to
the Commission.

CHAPTER 5

CONNECTIVITY CONDITIONS

27. Introduction.- The connectivity conditions specify the minimum technical and design
criteria, which shall be complied by any agency connected to, or seeking connection to the
distribution system. The distribution licensee shall ensure compliance of the above criteria
by any agency as a pre-requisite for the establishment of an agreed connection.

28. Objectives.- The objectives of this Chapter are-

(a) to ensure that the technical, designed and operational criteria specified in the
Distribution Code and Distribution Performance Standards are fully complied with for
new connections or augmentation of existing connections with distribution system;
(b) to ensure that the basic rules for connections are complied by all agencies. This shall help to treat
all agencies in a non-discriminatory manner;
(c) the ownership and responsibility for all the equipments shall be clearly specified in a schedule
(site responsibility schedule) for every site, where a connection is made;
(d) to establish the general requirements for all users seeking to connect to the distribution system,
or seeking to modify an existing connection;
(e) to specify the technical arrangements required at the interface boundary between the distribution
system and the user’s plant and equipment that are applicable at all voltage levels;
(f) to ensure that a new connection to the distribution system does not exert any adverse effects on
the existing users nor shall a new connection suffer adversely due to existing users;
(g) to specify the requirements that are applicable to all existing or prospective embedded
generators, including consumer captive generating plants; and
(h) to facilitate data exchange between the users, who are connected to the distribution system.

29. Scope.- The connection conditions specified in this Chapter apply to all
entities/consumers, using or intending of using distribution system including-
(a) the distribution licensees (i.e. distribution utilities);
(b) open access customers connected to distribution systems;
(c) other licensees for distribution connected to the distribution system;
(d) embedded generators; and
(e) large consumers. Formatted: Highlight

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30. Electricity supply procedures.- Electricity supply procedures covering various aspects of
connection procedures and customer services are laid down in a separate Chapter
(Chapter-9) which mainly contains- (a) classification of customer;
(b) power supply;
(c) apparatus on consumer's premises;
(d) meters;
(e) contract demand;
(f) system of supply;
(g) tariff and charges for supply;
(h) payment of bills;
(i) force majeure and restriction of power supply; (j) prohibitions, etc.

31. Responsibility for operational safety.- (1) The distribution licensee and the user shall be
responsible for safety as indicated in the site responsibility schedule for each connection
point.
(2) For each new connection with distribution system or modification of existing connection,
the distribution licensee shall prepare a site responsibility schedule indicating the following for
each item of equipment installed at the connection site as per format specified in Annexure 5,
namely:-
(a) the ownership of equipment;
(b) the responsibility for control of equipment;
(c) the responsibility for maintenance of equipment;
(d) the responsibility for operation of equipment;
(e) the coordinator at the site;
(f) the responsibility for all matters relating to safety of persons at site.

32. Connection agreement.- The connection agreement lays down the terms and conditions for
connection to, and use of, the distribution system. The connection agreement shall include (but
not limited to), as appropriate, the following terms and conditions, namely:- (a) a condition
requiring both parties to comply with the Distribution Code;
(b) details of connection, technical requirements and commercial arrangements
including the schedule of tariff for access and use of the distribution system;
(c) details of any capital expenditure arising from necessary reinforcement or
extension of the system and demarcation of the same between the concerned parties;
(d) site operational procedures and break down rectification obligations; (e) minimum
requirement on protection.
(2) The connection agreement shall also indicate the procedure for the site access, operational
activities at site and maintenance standards for equipments at inter-connection site in
distribution system and at user/ consumer premises.

33. Connection points and boundaries.-

I. Connection to transmission system

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(1) As regards the connection to transmission system, the distribution licensee shall comply with
connectivity conditions laid down in the Grid Code.

II. Connection of generators with distribution systems

(2) As regards the connection of generators with distribution systems,-

(a) the voltage for inter-connection with generators shall be 11 kV/33 kV or as may be agreed
upon by the distribution licensee;
(b) unless specifically agreed upon by the distribution licensee, the connection point shall be the
incoming of the circuit breaker of the generating station through which the generating
station is connected to the system of distribution licensee. The generating
company/generator shall maintain all the terminals, communication and protection
equipment provided within the perimeter of generating station;
(c) the provision, ownership, operation and maintenance of the metering system between
generating company/generator and distribution licensee at inter-connection point shall be
specifically agreed upon by the both parties and agreement shall be submitted to the
Commission;
(d) the distribution licensee shall maintain all electrical equipment and other assets from the
outgoing feeder gantry onwards.

III. Consumers

(3) As regards the consumers,-

(a) the voltage shall be as provided in the electricity supply procedures in Chapter 9;
Formatted: Highlight

(b) the inter-connection boundary, metering system and its ownership, operation and
maintenance shall be as provided in the said electricity supply procedures in Chapter 9.

34. Connected equipment requirements.- The equipment connected to the distribution system
shall meet the following requirements, namely:-
(a) all equipment connected to the distribution system shall be of such design and
construction as to satisfy the requirements of the relevant BSTI standard specification.
Where no BSTI exists the appropriate IEC standard or equivalent international standard
shall apply;
(b) installation and commissioning of all electrical equipment/works shall comply with this
Code;
(c) for every new connection sought, the distribution licensee shall specify the connection
point and the voltage of supply, along with the metering and protection requirements as
specified in regulations relating to metering and protection (Chapters 7 and 9);
(d) the system frequency excursions shall be as per this Code;
(e) voltage variation on the distribution licensee’s system shall be in accordance with this
Code;
(f) insulation co-ordination of the users equipment shall conform to applicable international
standards/codes. Rupturing capacity of switchgear shall not be less than that specified

21
 by the distribution licensee in the protection manual required to be made under
regulation 67;
(g) protection and metering arrangement of the connected equipment shall be as detailed in
the relevant provisions of the Distribution Code;
(h) generators running in synchronization with grid having salient pole alternators shall
install filters to reduce harmonics.

35. Connected plant restrictions.- Users connected to the distribution system may produce
power disturbances, which propagate into the distribution system. If these disturbances are
severe, the distribution system and other users of the system shall be adversely affected. To
ensure system integrity and fairness to all users, the restrictions and controls are to be stipulated
for compliance by the users as detailed below, namely:-
(a) safety.- all equipment of the users including cables, wiring and overhead lines shall be
compatible with safety standards in respect of-
(i) manufacture quality;
(ii) erection and location of installation;
(b) insulation.- the users systems must be designed with proper basic insulation level (BIL).
Insulation of all components in service must have adequate insulation strength for the
system operating voltages at all times;
(c) clearances.- all overhead lines, equipment and facilities must have adequate horizontal
and vertical clearances with respect to ground and with respect to one another as
provided in this Code or other applicable standards;
(d) earthing.- all components of users systems must be properly earthed as per this Code.
The bodies/cases/trucks/enclosures of all items of equipment shall be properly earthed,
with the actual earthing arrangements depending on the machine ratings. Metallic
supports of overhead lines and cable sheaths and shields shall also be earthed
appropriately;
(e) motor starters.- the starters provided for the motors of the users shall be of such type and
design that the starting current is less than six times the full-load current. The
distribution licensee may advise the user to change over to “auto-transformer” starting if
other type of starters for a particular motor causes unacceptable system distortions;
(f) access to distribution licensee.- the distribution licensees and their authorized personnel
shall have the right to inspect the plant of the user or consumer to ensure conformity to
standards and restrictions before charging the user’s system and periodically thereafter.
The users shall facilitate timely access to the authorized personnel of the distribution
licensees;
(g) distribution licensee’s power to enter premises, etc.- the distribution licensee shall, in
accordance with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 1910 (Act No. I of 1910), have
the power to enter premises and to remove fitting or its other apparatus for the purpose
of-
i. inspecting, testing, repairing or altering the electric supply lines, meters, fittings,
works and apparatus for the supply of electricity belonging to the distribution
licensee; or ii. ascertaining the amount of electricity supplied or the electrical
quantity contained in the supply; or iii. removing where a supply of
electricity is no longer required, or where the distribution licensee is authorized
to take away and cut off such supply, any electric supply-lines, meters, fittings,
works or apparatus belonging to the distribution licensee.

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 (h) unintended and unscheduled back-energization.- the users shall take adequate
precautions to ensure that no part of the distribution system is energized by the user’s
system or from another source via the user’s system unless the distribution licensee as
an exceptional arrangement requisitions it in writing. The switchgear and controls of the
user’s systems shall be so designed as to prevent back-energization. This does not apply
to CPPs and small generating units intended for parallel operation with the distribution
licensee’s system.;
(i) harmonic current.- equipment drawing harmonic currents such as furnaces, rolling mills
and high power solid-state equipment adversely affects the distribution system not
complying the harmonic criteria, the distribution licensee shall disconnect the
installation or part thereof and other users connected to that part of the distribution
system. The distribution licensee shall incorporate necessary provisions in connection
agreement for restricting the harmonic induction by the consumer into distribution
system;
(j) voltage flicker generated by consumers.- some loads of the consumers such as arc
furnaces create current fluctuations, which in turn produce voltage flicker. The
illumination quality in the premises of other consumers connected to the same feeder
suffers. The distribution licensee shall incorporate necessary provisions in connection
agreement for restricting the consumers create current fluctuations and causing voltage
flicker;
(k) Power factor.- low power factor results in under utilization of capacities of equipment,
machines, overhead lines and cables of the distribution licensees and generators and
causes direct revenue loss. The connection agreement shall specify the limit of power
factor of the loads. The power factor at which energy is imported by any entity as
measured at the connection point shall not be less than 95%. The onus for maintaining
the power factor (by installing shunt capacitors, if necessary) lies with the energy
receiving entity;
(l) efficiency of machines in respect of energy consumption.- all machines and devices
shall be efficient and their efficiency shall not be less than the values acceptable in
current sound industrial practices. The distribution licensees have a role in energy
conservation and shall prevent wastages of energy by the users.

Formatted: Highlight
36. Interface with generators and CPPs.- If the distribution licensee has an interface with any
generating unit including CPP and an agreement for this purpose exists, the distribution licensee
and the concerned owner of the generating unit shall abide by the following provisions, in
addition to other provisions contained in this Code and applicable to all users, namely:-
(a) the generator/CPP shall provide suitable protection at the interface to protect
his system from any damage due to normal and abnormal conditions in the
distribution system;
(b) the generator/CPP shall install separate metering for the reactive load draw, in
addition to operational metering;
(c) if the generator is an induction generator, the owner shall take adequate
precautions to limit the system disturbance, when the induction generator is
synchronized. Generators having induction generators shall install adequate
capacitors to compensate the reactive power drawl;
(d) whenever the power is found very low during starting period and causes voltage
dip in the distribution licensee’s system and the distribution licensee may advice

23
 the owner to install capacitors and the generator/CPP shall comply; (e) the generating
company/CPP shall also comply with the provisions of the
Grid Code. The owner of generating unit shall enter into an agreement with the
distribution licensee and if required with transmission licensee. Formatted: Highlight

24
 CHAPTER 6

DISTRIBUTION OPERATION PROCEDURES

37. Introduction.- This Chapter establishes rules, procedures and arrangements for efficient and
safe operations of distribution system by the distribution licensee and by the users of the
distribution system for their electrical plant and lines which are connected to the distribution
licensee’s system. This shall also apply to any electrical interface between two distribution
licensees for a safe and efficient operation of interface and provides guidelines to the
distribution licensee and other distribution system participants with regards to the following,
namely:-
(a) demand estimation;
(b) outage planning;
(c) contingency planning;
(d) demand management and load shedding;
(e) interface with small generating plants including CPPs;
(f) monitoring and control of voltage, frequency and power factor;
(g) safety coordination;
(h) significant incident and accident reporting;
(i) maintenance and testing; (j) tools and spares; and (k) training.

38. Objectives.- The objectives of distribution operation procedures are to achieve the
following, namely:-
(a) to establish rules, procedures and arrangements for efficient and safe distribution
operations;
(b) to enable the distribution licensee to coordinate and integrate the operation and
maintenance with other users, embedded generating stations, open access Formatted:
Highlight customers and large consumers connected to distribution system; (c) to
ensure safety of persons and properties while work is being done on the distribution
system; and
(d) to provide for the exchange of information for operation actions and/or
significant events.

39. Operating manuals.- (1) To ensure the compliance of provisions of this Code, the
distribution licensee shall develop and maintain documented operating manuals.
(2) The distribution licensee shall develop the following distribution operating manuals
(DOMs) so that each operating personnel may work in consistent and coordinated manner to
provide an efficient, reliable and safe distribution system, namely:-
(a) demand estimation manual;
(b) demand control manual;
(c) outage planning manual;
(d) contingency planning and system restoration manual;
(e) safety manual;

25
 (f) significant incident and accident reporting manual.
(3) The distribution licensee shall furnish the copies of such distribution operating manuals to
the Commission.

40. Demand estimation.- (1) The distribution licensee shall estimate demand for distribution
system on year ahead, month ahead and day ahead basis as per the Grid Code requirement on
the basis of relevant load data and/or curves subject to modifications depending upon the
communications received from any specific user or caused by any contingency. Demand
estimation shall be made at an interval such as hourly or time block basis as may be required by
NLDC.
(2) The concerned major users identified by the distribution licensee shall furnish required data
pertaining to the demand of their installations to the distribution licensee. The distribution
licensee shall consolidate the requirement for entire distribution system and shall furnish the
same to NLDC as per requirement of the Grid Code.

41. Demand management.- (1) Temporary load shedding may be effected as per instructions of
NLDC for maintaining load-generation balance, loss of any circuit or equipment or any other
operational contingency.
(2) The distribution licensee shall estimate loads that may be shed in discrete blocks at each
inter-connection point in consultation with the users/consumers supplied through independent
circuits as required and submit the same to the NLDC. Such users/consumers shall cooperate
with the distribution licensee in this regard. The distribution licensee shall work out the
sequence of load shedding operation and the detailed procedure shall be furnished to the NLDC
and to the person in-charge of the substation concerned where such load shedding has to be
carried out. In case of automatic load shedding through under frequency or any other relays, the
circuits and the amount of load to be interrupted with corresponding relay settings shall be
intimated to the NLDC and person in charge of the substations of the distribution licensee, as
may be necessary.
(3) If the duration of planned load shedding to any part of the distribution system exceeds a day
it shall be notified to the public through the media. Wherever possible, in case of emergency
load shedding, the consumers with contract demand of 1 MW and above and essential services
such as Radio/TV stations, telecommunication organizations, railways, hospitals, public water
works, etc. shall be intimated over telephone also.

42. Outage planning.- (1) The distribution licensee shall furnish a proposed outage program of
the distribution system where aggregate generation or demand exceeds 5 MW to the NLDC for
next financial year by 15th November each year.
(2) The outage program affecting aggregate generation or demand exceeding 5 MW shall contain
identification of lines and equipment of distribution system proposed to be taken out of service,
date of start of outage, duration of outage and quantum of load restricted at any interconnection
point during outage. Further the distribution licensee shall confirm the information published in
newspapers about the shut downs of the system at least one day prior to its occurrence.
(3) The distribution licensee shall release the outage plan for distribution system based on final
outage plan agreed with NLDC by 31st December each year.
(4) Before any line or equipment is taken out of service, the distribution licensee shall obtain
consent of the designated officer of the NLDC even though the same is already included in the
approved plan.

26
(5) In addition to the above, in case of lines and equipment of 132 kV or above, specific concurrence
of NLDC shall be obtained.
(6) The above procedure shall not apply under the following circumstances, namely:-
(a) in cases where the estimated draw at interconnection point is not affected;
(b) emergency situations to save plant and machinery;
(c) in case of unforeseen emergency situations requiring isolation of line or equipment to
save human life; and
(d) disconnection to be effected on any user or consumer's installation due to violation of a
connection or electricity supply agreement.
(7) In such cases the NLDC shall be informed wherever the load to the extent of 5 MW or more is
affected.

43. Contingency planning.- (1) A contingency situation may arise in the event of a total or
partial blackout in the transmission system. A contingency may also arise in a part of the
distribution system due to local breakdowns in the distribution system itself. It may also arise
due to a breakdown in the apparatus of the transmission licensee at or before the point of
interconnection.
(2) The contingency procedure shall be documented unambiguously to achieve the restoration
of the total system and associated demand, and re-synchronization of parts of the total system,
which have become out of synchronism with each other, at the shortest possible time.
This shall be achieved in the following manure, namely:-
(a) in ease of transmission system failure-
(i) in case of a total blackout at any point of inter-connection, the distribution
licensee shall follow the step-by-step instructions of NLDC on system
restoration, prioritizing essential and non-essential loads and black start
procedures of embedded generators as required under the provisions of the Grid
Code;
(ii) the distribution licensee shall sectionalize the distribution system into discrete
blocks of demand. The distribution licensee shall inform the NLDC about the
extent of load in MW likely to be picked up on switching each demand block; (iii) the
distribution licensee shall prepare a schedule of essential loads in order of
priority at each interconnection to be picked up during the restoration process and
shall be intimated to NLDC in the format prescribed in Annexure 6;
(iv) the distribution licensee shall ensure and maintain load generation balance under
the direction of the NLDC as per Grid Code;
(v) till normalcy is restored the distribution licensee shall maintain direct
communication links with the NLDC as per Grid Code;
(vi) the distribution licensee shall furnish the names, designations of the person(s) and
their telephone numbers and stations, authorized to deal with contingency operations, to
the NLDC as per Grid Code;

(b) in case of distribution system failure-

(i) interruption of power supply in any part of the distribution system lasting for
more than two hours due to breakdown in any part of the distribution system may
be termed as a distribution system failure;

27
(ii) the distribution licensee shall coordinate with NLDC for restoration process,
which shall be as per Grid Code;
(iii)the distribution licensee shall designate a nodal officer to coordinate with NLDC
for transmission system restoration process;

(c) in case of failure of the apparatus of the transmission licensee- the distribution licensee
shall immediately contact the authorized person at the grid substation of the
transmission licensee and assess the probable period of restoration and the probable
restriction of load draw from the affected substation. The distribution licensee shall
make the demand management plan accordingly.

Monitoring and control of voltage, frequency and power factor.-

44. (1) The distribution Formatted: Highlight

licensee shall operate and maintain its system, in the manner that the power availability to consumers in terms of quality, continuity and reliability is in
accordance with the distribution performance standards laid down by the Commission.
(2) The distribution licensee shall monitor the voltage, frequency and power factors in the
distribution system at various substations during peak and off-peak hours and take reasonable
measures for improvement of the same in coordination with the consumers having demand of
more than 5 MW and the transmission licensee.
(3) The distribution licensee shall take power factor improvement measures at strategic points
in the distribution system by carrying out system studies and installing required reactive
compensation equipments.
(4) Voltage in the distribution system may vary depending upon the available generation,
system demand and the configuration of transmission and distribution system at any time.
(5) Under normal operating conditions the distribution licensee shall exercise proper voltage
management in the distribution system beyond the point of interconnection with the
transmission system to maintain voltage at all levels according to the distribution performance
standards. The capacitors, wherever required, shall be provided at the 33 kV substations to
maintain power factor within acceptable limits of 0.9 lagging. The distribution licensee shall
provide the reactive compensation looking to 11 kV and 33 kV bus-voltages at 33 kV
substations through application of capacitors wherever available.
(6) Users/consumers having loads with high harmonic content, fluctuations and power factor
below set limit by BERC shall install appropriate correction equipment to meet the minimum
connectivity conditions with distribution system.
(7) The distribution licensee shall abide by the instructions issued by the NLDC from time to
time on load management for maintaining the frequency of supply within the specified limits.

45. Operational coordination.- (1) In the case of an operation on the user’s system, which may
have an operational effect on the distribution system, the concerned user shall notify the
distribution licensee in accordance with procedure laid down in this Code. Similarly the
distribution licensee shall also notify the affected user(s) in the case of an operation on the
distribution system, which may have an operational effect on the user’s system. Further the
distribution operation may be caused by an operation on another system. In such case, the
information to be provided by the distribution licensee and/or the user shall reflect the linkage
between the operations.
(2) While in no way limiting the general requirement for advance notification, the following are
examples of situations where notification shall be required, since they may have or have had an
effect on the operation of the distribution system or another system, namely:- (a) the

28
implementation of a scheduled maintenance program of plant and/or equipment,
which has been arranged;
(b) the operation of any circuit breaker or disconnect switch or any sequence or
combination of the two including any temporary overstressing or generating unit
synchronizing; and (c) voltage control.

46. Safety management system.- The distribution licensee and distribution system participants
shall maintain a safety management system, which specifies the principles and procedures to
ensure safety of persons and properties, while work is being done on the distribution system.

47. Operational boundary.- At sites or locations where an operational boundary exists, the
distribution licensee and users shall jointly agree on the adoption of a safety management
system. This shall include the provision of personnel of the distribution licensee and/or user
involved in work at operation site and public and property involved.

48. Safety coordinator.- (1) The distribution licensees and users shall each nominate a person or
persons who shall be responsible for the coordination of safety precautions at each connection
point when work is to be carried out on a system on which safety from the system is required.
(2) Each user shall prior to working on inter-connection point with distribution system give
notice in writing to the safety coordinator of the distribution licensee and inform the name of
person(s) who shall be responsible for the coordination of work at operational boundary.
(3) The distribution licensees shall, also prior to issue authorization to any user to work on
interconnection point, inform that user of the identity of its designated officer who shall issue
the permission to user to connect to distribution system and issue work permit for connection
work at operational boundary.

49. Safety precautions document.- (1) The distribution licensees and users shall maintain a
suitable system of documentation, which records all relevant operational events that have taken
place on the distribution system or any other system connected to it and the coordination of
relevant safety precautions for work. All documentation in this regards and safety precautions
taken for work or test shall be preserved at least for one year for any evidential purpose
including any investigation of any accident.
(2) The distribution licensee and the users shall observe the safety requirements as mentioned in
the safety code while working at inter-connection boundary of the distribution system.
(3) There shall be coordination between persons of the distribution licensee and the
users/consumers, between persons of two distribution licensees having electrical interfaces, for
carrying out the work on any apparatus or lines etc. belonging to either party at the point of
interconnection.
(4) The provisions of the Grid Code shall be followed at interconnection points in coordination
with the transmission licensee.
(5) The disconnecting device(s) at each electrical interface, which shall be capable of
effectively disconnecting the system of the distribution licensee and users/consumers and the
grounding devices of the respective systems at the control boundary shall be identified and
marked by the distribution licensee and the respective users/consumers. These shall be
maintained in good condition at all times.

29
 (6) To prevent inadvertent switching operations by unauthorized persons, such disconnecting
devices shall be provided with interlocks.
(7) If a consumer installs an emergency power supply system, either an electronic system with
storage batteries or with generation, the arrangement shall be such that the same cannot be
operated without clearly isolating the system from the supply mains. The possibility of a feed
back from these devices to the distribution system from any of the conductors including the
neutral conductor shall be clearly ruled out.
Appropriate control person at electrical interface shall issue permission in writing to a
counterpart for carrying out work on any apparatus, switchgear or lines beyond the electrical
interfaces. Such permissions shall be termed as “Line Clear Permits” (LCP). The format for
LCP shall be standardized by the distribution licensee and shall be used by all concerned.

50. Safety manual.- (1) The distribution licensee shall observe measures relating to safety in
electricity supply as specified in the Electricity Act 1910 (Act No. I of 1910). The Formatted: Highlight
distribution licensee shall observe the general safety requirements as laid down in the Formatted: Highlight
Electricity Rules, 1937
for construction, installation, protection, operation and maintenance Formatted: Highlight of electric supply lines and apparatus.
(2) Every person who is working on a electric line or apparatus or both shall be provided with
tools and devices such as gloves, rubber shoes, safety belts, ladders, earthing devices, helmets, line
testers, hand lines and like for protecting him from mechanical and electric injury. Such tools and
devices shall always be maintained in sound and efficient working conditions.
(3) The distribution licensee shall develop its safety manual taking into consideration the safety
requirements for the construction, operation and maintenance of electrical plants and electric
lines as specified by the Electricity Act 1910 (Act No. I of 1910), Electricity Rules, 1937 and
this Distribution Code. The copy of safety manual shall be furnished to the Commission.

51. Significant incident or accident reporting.- (1) Any of the following events that could affect the
distribution system requires reporting, namely:-
(a) major blackout in power supply;
(b) failure of power transformer affecting power supply in large area;
(c) accidents-fatal and non-fatal;
(d) major fire incidents;
(e) major failure of protection;
(f) major breakdowns in the distribution system;
(g) loss of major generating unit;
(h) major breakdown in sub-transmission line;
(i) serious equipment problem i.e. major circuit breaker, transformer or bus bar etc;
(j) any other incident which the distribution licensee or the user may consider worth reporting in view of its repercussions on the safe and
reliable operation of the distribution system;
(k) major breakdowns of equipment supplying power to the user’s system.
(2) The distribution licensee shall report to the BERC occurrence of any of the above incident at
the time and in the form specified in the succeeding regulations.

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52. Reporting procedure.- (1) All reportable incidents occurring in lines and equipment of 33
kV and above at the 132/33 kV substations shall be reported within 2 (two) hours of the
incident telephonically by the distribution licensee whose equipment has experienced the
incident, to all other significantly affected users identified by the distribution licensee and the
NLDC. The reporting distribution licensee should submit a report in writing to NLDC within 24
(twenty-four) hours of such telephonic report. If the incident is of major nature, the report shall
be submitted within 24 (twenty-four) hours duly followed by a comprehensive report within 72
(seventy-two) hours of the incident. In other cases, the reporting distribution licensee shall
submit a report within 5 (five) working days to the NLDC.
(2) The NLDC shall call for a report from any distribution licensee on any reportable incident
affecting other consumers in case a consumer whose equipment might have been a source of the
reportable incident does not report the same. However, this shall not absolve any user from
obligation to report events in accordance with the Electricity Rules, 1937.

53. Reporting Form.- (1) All reportable incidents except the accident cases shall be reported in the
Form given in Annexure 7.
(2) The Distribution Coordination Committee may review the Form as and when necessary and
may make such addition, alteration or Commission therein as it may think fit to do.

54. Accident reporting.- Reporting of accident shall be in accordance with section 33 (1) of the
Electricity Act 1910 (Act No. I of 1910). If an accident occurs in the distribution system
resulting in or likely to have resulted in loss or injury to human or animal life, the distribution
licensee shall send a telephonic report to the concerned authorities immediately after knowledge
of such occurrence. This shall be followed by a report in writing in the form set out in Annexure
8 within 48 (forty eight) hours of the knowledge of occurrence of fatal and other accidents.

55. Maintenance and testing.- The level of performance of all line and substation equipment
shall meet the standards of performance for the distribution licensee specified by the
Commission.

56. Construction and maintenance practices.- (1) All electric supply lines and apparatus shall be
of sufficient ratings for power, insulation and estimated fault current and of sufficient
mechanical strength, for the duty which may be required to perform under the environmental
conditions of installation, and shall be constructed, installed, protected, worked and maintained
in such a manner as to ensure safety of human beings, animals and property.
(2) The relevant code of practice of the Bangladesh Standard and Testing Institution (BSTI)
including National Electrical Code, if any, may be followed. The material and apparatus used
shall conform to the relevant specification of BSTI where such specifications have been already
laid.
(3) The distribution licensee shall, if already has not done so, prepare and observe the
construction and maintenance manuals for various equipment/works like 132 kV lines, 33 kV
lines, 11 kV lines, LT lines, 132 kV substation, 33 kV substation, 11 kV pole mounted and
other types of substations. The construction and maintenance manual shall be prepared taking
into consideration of the following, namely:-
(a) technical standards for construction of electrical plants, electric lines and
connectivity to the grid specified by the Commission;

31
 (b) safety requirements for construction, operation and maintenance of electrical
plants and electric lines specified by the Commission and/or a competent
authority;
(c) construction standards and standard design layouts of the distribution licensee;
(d) Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) publications on code of practices,
if any;
(e) code of practices issued by a competent authority including BSTI for various
equipment and maintenance practices; and
(f) instruction manuals for installation, operation and maintenance issued by
standard equipments manufacturer concerned.
(4) The standard tables for conductor size, fuse size, wire gauge, electrical clearance, ground
wire size, insulation resistance and earth resistively, etc. shall be included in the construction
and maintenance manual. The distribution licensee shall ensure that its construction and
maintenance staff strictly observe these manuals. The copy of construction and maintenance
manual shall be furnished to the Commission.

57. Preventive maintenance schedule and inspection manual.- (1) The distribution licensee shall
prepare a preventative maintenance schedule and inspection manual for various line and
substation equipment installed in distribution system. The preventive maintenance schedule and
inspection manual shall include the following important equipment, namely:-
(a) power transformers and distribution transformers installed indoor;
(b) power transformers and distribution transformers installed outdoor;
(c) pole mounted distribution transformers;
(d) 11 kV, 33 kV and 132 kV circuit breakers;
(e) 11 kV, 33 kV and 132 kV overhead lines including gang operated switches and drop out fuses;
(f) 11 kV, 33 kV and 132 kV overhead lines including gang operated switches and drop out fuses;
(g) 11 kV, 33 kV and 132 kV cable and cable boxes;
(h) LT lines; and
(i) service connection.
(2) The preventive maintenance schedule and inspection manual shall have sections covering the
following, namely:-
(a) recommended schedule for inspection;
(b) recommended schedule for preventive maintenance; and (c)
recommended schedule for overhaul.
(3) The inspection schedule and preventive maintenance schedule shall have daily, weekly,
monthly, quarterly and annual periodic activity to be carried out for various equipments.

58. Maintenance record.- (1) The distribution licensee shall maintain records of periodic
inspections carried out in the standard formats prescribed in the preventive maintenance
schedule and inspection manual. Records shall be maintained in respect of the following,
amongst others, namely:-
(a) power transformers and large distribution
transformers installed indoor;

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 (b) pole mounted distribution transformers; (c)
11 kV , 33 kV and 132 kV circuit breakers;
(d) 132 kV, 33 kV and 11 kV lines.
(2) Regular testing of all the equipments such as transformers, switchgear, protective relays,
etc., should be carried out as recommended by the manufacturer and the relevant code of
practice issued by the competent authority. These shall be carried out at the prescribed intervals
and the test results shall be recorded in the maintenance registers. Wherever the test results
indicate a decline in the insulation resistance and/or deterioration of the equipment, preventive
maintenance shall be carried out to ensure serviceability, safety and efficiency.
(3) The distribution licensee shall maintain well trained hot-line personnel and all the required
tools in good condition and conduct maintenance work by using hot-line technique, wherever
possible, to reduce period of interruption.
(4) The consumers shall maintain their apparatus and power lines at all times conforming to the
Electricity Rules, 1937 and these shall be suitable for connection to distribution system in a safe
and reliable manner.

59. Tools and spares.- The distribution licensee shall ensure availability of proper tools and
tackles at all work places for carrying out the maintenance. The tools and tackles shall be
checked from time to time and their serviceability shall be ensured. The distribution licensee
shall maintain an inventory of spares required for maintenance and replacement purposes at
suitable locations according to a clear policy to be laid down by the distribution licensee.

60. Training.- (1) The distribution licensee shall impart necessary training to its officers/staff in
distribution system operation and maintenance practices so as to implement the provisions of
this Code.
(2) The distribution licensee shall make appropriate arrangements for imparting training in both
cold line and hot-line work to workmen and supervisory staff, incorporating up-to-date
techniques of distribution system design, construction and maintenance. Suitable syllabus shall
be framed for this purpose.

61. Nomenclatures and identification coding.- The distribution licensee shall prepare equipment
nomenclatures and identification equipment for uniquely identifying various equipments in
distribution system. The nomenclatures scheme shall be consistent with the scheme provided in
the Grid Code.

62. Conservation of energy.- The distribution licensee and other participants including
consumers shall comply with the provisions of laws, if any, relating to energy conservation and
such directions relating thereto as may be issued by the Government or the Commission from
time to time.

63. Operational communication.- (1) Reliable communication links shall be established for
exchange of data, information and operating instructions between NLDC and the distribution
licensee, embedded generators, users and large consumers with a demand of more than 5 MW.
The distribution licensee and the users connected to its distribution system shall designate
officers and agree on communication channels for the exchange of information.

33
Communication shall, as much as possible, be direct between the user and the operator of the
distribution system to which that user is connected.
(2) The list of telephone numbers and call signs shall be exchanged by the distribution licensee and
concerned users to enable control activities to be efficiently coordinated.

CHAPTER 7

DISTRIBUTION PROTECTION REQUIREMENT

64. Introduction.- In order to safeguard distribution system and prevent faults travelling into the
transmission system, it is essential that certain minimum standards for protection shall be
specified for the distribution licensee and users connected to distribution system. This Chapter
describes these minimum standards.

65. Objective.- The objective of this Chapter is to define the minimum protection requirements
for any equipment connected to the distribution system, so that faulty distribution section can be
isolated from the rest of power system and thereby minimize disruption due to faults.

66. General principles.- (1) No item of electrical equipment shall be allowed to remain
connected to the distribution system unless it is covered by appropriate protection aimed at
reliability, selectivity, speed and sensitivity of protective relays/devices. The distribution
licensee and users shall abide by the instructions of the transmission licensee to ensure correct
and appropriate settings of protection to achieve effective, discriminatory removal of faulty
equipment within the target clearance time specified in the Grid Code.
(2) Protective relay settings shall not be altered nor protection shall be bypassed and/or
disconnected without consultation with, and agreement of, all the affected consumers and
distribution licensee. In case the protection has been bypassed and/or disconnected by
agreement, the same should be rectified and protection restored to normal condition as quickly
as possible. If agreement is not reached all the electrical equipments shall be isolated forthwith.

67. Protection manual.- (1) The distribution licensee shall prepare and enforce a standard
manual of protection indicating minimum protection requirement within the distribution system
and connected users’ system.
(2) The protection manual shall cover protection of 33 kV and 11 kV lines power and
distribution transformers. The protection manual shall be prepared taking into consideration the
Grid Code protection requirement on distribution/user system and shall contain relevant data on
fault levels at various places, guidelines for setting standard relays for over current and earth
faults, fuse rating selection criteria, etc. A copy of protection manual prepared in compliance
with the above requirement shall be furnished to the Commission.

68. Protection at inter-connection point of EHV GSS.- (1) All 33 kV and 11 kV lines emanating
from EHV Grid Substation (GSS) shall be provided with a minimum of overcurrent and earth
fault protection with or without directional features along with high set element as per the Grid
Code requirement. Coordination with the originating EHV substation should be ensured to

34
avoid major substation equipment/EHV transmission lines from tripping on through faults due
to delayed fault clearance in the distribution feeders.
(2) Protection on 132/33 kV, 33/11 kV and 11/0.4 kV transformers and lines (or their
sectionalizing points) of HV system of distribution licensee shall be coordinated with settings of
protection provided on 132 kV, 33 kV and 11 kV feeders at EHV substations.

69. Line protection, 132 kV, 33 kV and 11 kV.- (1) The settings of protective relays for 132
kV, 33 kV and 11 kV lines shall be such that a fault in any section does not affect the upstream
section between the generating unit/feeding substation and the faulty section under all
conditions. 33 kV radial lines shall have two over-current and one earth fault nondirectional
IDMT relay protection. The relays shall also have instantaneous over current element. Where
33 kV line is an interconnection between two substations or a generator unit and the substation,
these relays shall have directional feature.
(2) All 33 kV and 11 kV lines at connection points shall be provided with a minimum of over-current and
earth fault relays as follows, namely:-
(a) radial feeders- non-directional time lag over current and earth fault relays with
suitable settings to obtain discrimination between adjacent relays settings; (b)
parallel/ring feeders and interconnected feeders- directional time lag over current and
earth fault relays;
(c) long feeders/transformer feeders- these feeders shall
incorporate a high set instantaneous element.

70. Transformer protection.- The distribution licensee shall formulate its own standard for
transformer and other equipment considering reliability and economic consideration and
maintain them accordingly. The minimum protection requirements of transformers installed in
distribution system shall be as under, namely:- (a) on primary side of transformers-
(i) on primary side of transformers a linked switch of such capacity as to
carry the full load current and to break only the magnetizing current of
transformer, provided the capacity of the transformer does not exceeds
1000 kVA;
(ii) circuit breaker/recloser of adequate capacity for transformers having
capacity above 1000 kVA;
(b) on secondary side of transformers-
(i) all the transformers of capacity 1000 KVA and above transforming
MV/HV to EHV, MV or LV a circuit breaker/recloser of adequate rating
shall be provided;
(ii) in respect of transformers of capacity upto 1000 kVA, a linked switch
with fuse or circuit breaker/recloser of adequate rating shall be provided. (c) in
addition to above, transformers having high or extra high voltage on any
side shall be provided with following protection, namely:-
(i) gas pressure type and winding and oil temperature protection to give
alarm and tripping shall be provided on all transformers of rating 1000
kVA and above;
(ii) transformers of capacity 10 MVA and above shall be protected against
incipient faults by differential protection.

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71. Generator protection.-All generators with rating of 100 kVA and above shall be
Formatted: Highlight

protected against earth fault/leakage. All generators of rating 1000 kVA and above shall be
protected against faults within the generator winding using restricted earth fault protection or
differential protection or both. The protection at interconnection point with transmission grid
shall be in accordance with Grid Code requirements and connectivity criteria laid down therein.

72. Protection coordination.- (1) The transmission licensee shall notify the initial settings and
any subsequent changes to the distribution licensee and users from time to time. Routine checks
on the performance of protective relays shall be conducted and any malfunction shall be noted
and corrected as soon as possible. The distribution licensee shall decide the relay settings with
the data collected from the transmission licensee and the users on fault levels at various EHV
substations.
(2) Representatives of the generating companies, transmission licensees and distribution
licensees shall meet periodically to discuss such malfunctions, changes in the system
configuration, if any, and possible revised settings of relays.
(3) The NLDC shall be responsible for arranging periodical meetings between the generating
companies, transmission licensees and distribution licensees to discuss coordination of
protection as per the Grid Code requirement. The transmission licensee shall investigate any
malfunction of protection or other unsatisfactory protection issues. The distribution licensees
shall take prompt action to correct any protection malfunction or activity in distribution system
as discussed and agreed to in these periodical meetings.
CHAPTER 8

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION

73. Introduction.- This Chapter applies to all distribution system users including the distribution
licensees, generators connected to the distribution system, open access
customers/consumers and any other entity with a user system connected to the distribution
system.

74. Objectives.- The objectives of this Chapter are-

(a) to ensure the quality of electric power in the distribution system;
(b) to ensure that the distribution system is operated in a safe and efficient
manner and with a high degree of reliability; and
(c) to specify safety standards for the protection of personnel in the work
environment.

A.- Power Quality Standards

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75. Power quality problems.- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, power quality shall be
defined as the quality of the voltage, including its frequency and the resulting current, that
are measured in the distribution system during normal conditions.
(2) A power quality problem exists when at least one of the following conditions is present and
significantly affects the normal operation of the system, namely:- (a) the system frequency
has deviated from the nominal value of 50 Hz;
(b) voltage magnitudes are outside their allowable range of variation;
(c) harmonic frequencies are present in the system;
(d) there is imbalance in the magnitude of the phase voltages;
(e) the phase displacement between the voltages is not equal to 120 degrees; (f) voltage fluctuations cause flicker that is outside the
allowable flicker severity limits; or
(g) high-frequency over-voltages are present in the grid.

76. Voltage variations.- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, voltage variation shall be defined
as the deviation of the root-mean-square (RMS) value of the voltage from its nominal value,
expressed in percent. Voltage variation shall either be of short duration or long duration.
(2) A short duration voltage variation shall be defined as a variation of the RMS value of the
voltage from nominal voltage for a time greater than one-half cycle of the power frequency but
not exceeding one minute. A short duration voltage variation is a voltage swell if the RMS
value of the voltage increases to between 110 percent and 180 percent of the nominal value. A
short duration voltage variation is a voltage sag (or voltage dip) if the RMS value of the voltage
decreases to between 10 percent and 90 percent of the nominal value.
(3) A long duration voltage variation shall be defined as a variation of the RMS value of the
voltage from nominal voltage for a time greater than one minute. A long duration voltage
variation is an under-voltage if the RMS value of the voltage is less than or equal to 90 percent
of the nominal voltage. A long duration voltage variation is an over-voltage if the RMS value of
the voltage is greater than or equal to 110 percent of the nominal value.
(4) The distribution licensee shall ensure that the long duration voltage variations result in RMS
values of the voltages that are greater than 95 percent but less than 105 percent of the nominal
voltage at any connection point during normal conditions.

77. Harmonics.- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, harmonics shall be defined as sinusoidal
voltages and currents having frequencies that are integral multiples of the fundamental
frequency. The total harmonic distortion (THD) shall be defined as the ratio of the RMS value
of the harmonic content to the RMS value of the fundamental quantity, expressed in percent.
(2) The total demand distortion (TDD) shall be defined as the ratio of the RMS value of the
harmonic content to the RMS value of the rated or maximum fundamental quantity, expressed
in percent.
(3) The total harmonic distortion of the voltage and the total demand distortion of the current at
any connection point shall not exceed the limits permitted by international standards.

78. Voltage unbalance.- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, the negative sequence unbalance
factor shall be defined as the ratio of the magnitude of the negative sequence component of the
voltages to the magnitude of the positive sequence component of the voltages, expressed in
percent. For the purpose of this regulation, the zero sequence unbalance factor shall be defined

37
as the ratio of the magnitude of the zero sequence component of the voltages to the magnitude
of the positive sequence component of the voltages, expressed in percent.
(2) The maximum negative sequence unbalance factor at the connection point of any user shall not
exceed 1 (one) percent during normal operating conditions.
(3) The maximum zero sequence unbalance factor at the connection point of any user shall not
exceed 1 (one) percent during normal operating conditions.

79. Voltage fluctuation and flicker severity.- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, voltage
fluctuations shall be defined as systematic variations of the voltage envelope or random
amplitude changes where the RMS value of the voltage is between 90 percent and 110 percent
of the nominal voltage.
(2) For the purpose of this regulation, flicker shall be defined as the impression of unsteadiness
of visual sensation induced by a light stimulus whose luminance or spectral distribution
fluctuates with time.
(3) In the assessment of the disturbance caused by a flicker source with a short duty cycle, the
short term flicker severity shall be computed over a 10-minute period. In the assessment of the
disturbance caused by a flicker source with a long and variable duty cycle, the long term flicker
severity shall be derived from the short term flicker severity levels.
(4) The voltage fluctuation at any connection point with a fluctuating demand shall not exceed
1 (one) percent of the nominal voltage for every step change, which may occur repetitively.
Any large voltage fluctuation other than a step change may be allowed up to a level of 3 (three)
percent provided that this does not constitute a risk to the distribution system.
(5) The flicker severity at any connection point in the distribution system shall not exceed
short-term 1.0 unit and long-term 0.8 units.

B.- Reliability Standards

80. Criteria for establishing distribution reliability standards.- (1) The Commission shall impose a
uniform system of recording and reporting of distribution reliability performance.
(2) The numerical levels of performance (or targets) shall be unique and be based initially on the
distribution licensee’s historical performance.
(3) The distribution system shall be evaluated annually to compare its actual performance with the
targets.

81. Distribution reliability indices.- (1) The Commission shall prescribe reliability indices that
will measure the total number of sustained power interruptions in the distribution system. The
index definitions and determination shall be in accordance with IEEE 1366.
(2) The Commission shall prescribe a reliability index that will measure the total duration of
sustained power interruptions in the distribution system. (3) Initially the following indices shall
be applicable, namely:- (a) SAIFI-System Average Interruption Frequency Index;
(b) SAIDI-System Average Interruption Duration Index;
(c) CAIFI-Customer Average Interruption Frequency Index;
(d) CAIDI-Customer Average Interruption Duration Index;
(e) ASAI-Average Service Availability Index;
(f) ASIFI-Average System Interruption Frequency Index.

38
(4) After due notice and hearing, the Commission may impose other indices that will monitor the
reliability performance of the distribution system.

82. Inclusions and exclusions of interruption events.- (1) A power interruption shall include
any outage in the distribution system which may be due to the tripping action of protective
devices during faults or the failure of transmission lines and/or power transformers, and which
results in the loss of service to a distribution system consumer/user or a group of
consumers/users.
(2) The following events shall be excluded in the calculation of the reliability indices, namely:-
(a) outages that occur outside the distribution system;
(b) outages due to generation deficit;
(c) planned outages where the users have been notified at least 7 (seven) days prior to the loss of power;
(d) outages that are initiated by the system operator or market operator during
the occurrence of significant incidents or the failure of their facilities;
(e) outages caused by adverse weather or major storm disasters which result
in the declaration by the Government of a state of calamity; and (f) outages
due to other events that the Commission may approve after due notice
and hearing.

83. Submission of distribution reliability reports and performance targets.- (1) The distribution
licensee shall submit to the Commission after every 3 (three) months the quarterly interruption
reports for each distribution system using the standard format prescribed by the Commission.
(2) The Commission shall set the performance targets for each distribution system after due notice
and hearing.

C.- System Loss Standards

84. System loss classification.- (1) The system loss shall be classified into three categories: technical
loss, non-technical loss, and administrative loss.
(2) The technical loss shall be the aggregate of conductor loss, the core loss in transformers, and
any loss due to technical metering error.
(3) The non-technical loss shall be the aggregate of the energy loss due to meter-reading errors and
meter tampering.
(4) The administrative loss shall include the energy that is required for the proper operation of the
distribution system.

85. System loss cap.- (1) The Commission shall, after due notice and hearing, prescribe a Formatted: Highlight cap on the
system loss that can be passed on by the distribution licensee to the users. The cap shall be applied to the aggregate of
the technical and non-technical losses.
(2) The distribution licensee shall submit to the Commission an application for the approval of
its administrative loss. The allowance for administrative loss shall be approved by the
Commission, after due notice and hearing, based on connected essential load.

D.- Safety Standards

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86. Safety compliance.- The distribution licensee shall develop, operate, and maintain the
distribution system in a safe manner and shall always ensure a safe work environment for their
employees. This Code governs the safety requirements for electrical installation, operation, and
maintenance which covers electrical equipment and associated work practices employed by the
electric utility. Compliance with these codes is mandatory. Hence, the distribution licensee shall
at all times ensure that no provision of these safety codes is violated.

87. Measurement of performance for personnel safety.- The following pertinent matters are to
be ensured for the measurement of performance for personnel safety that shall be applied to the
distribution licensee, namely:-
(a) exposure to work injuries shall be measured by the total number of hours of
employment of all employees in each establishment or reporting unit;
(b) employee-hours of exposure for calculating work injury rates are intended to be the
actual hours worked, when actual hours are not available, estimated hours may be
used;
(c) the disabling injury/illness frequency rate shall be based upon the total number of
deaths, permanent total, permanent partial, and temporary total disabilities, which
occur during the period covered by the rate; the rate relates those injuries/illnesses to
the employee-hours worked during the period and expresses the number of such
injuries in terms of a million man-hour units;
(d) the disabling injury/illness severity rate shall be based on the total of all scheduled
charges for all deaths, permanent total, and permanent partial disabilities, plus the
total actual days of the disabilities of all temporary total disabilities, which occur
during the period covered by the rate; the rate relates these days to the total
employee-hours worked during the period and expresses the loss in terms of million
man-hour units.

88. Submission of safety records and reports.- The distribution licensee shall submit to BERC
copies of records and reports. These shall include the measurement of performance specified
above.

89. Electric and magnetic field (EMF).- The distribution licensee shall calculate the intensity of
electric and magnetic field (EMF) at the edge of right of way for different line configuration
and operating voltages. The values of electric field shall be determined in V/m and that of
magnetic field in mT (milli-telsa) or mG (milli-Gauss). Actual intensity shall practically be
measured in accordance with IEEE Standard-644 (latest revision) and the finding shall be
submitted to the Commission. Safety level with respect to human exposure to electro-magnetic
field shall also be determined and maintained in accordance with IEEE C95.1 thru IEEE C95.6
(2002 or latest revision).

90. Noise level.- The noise level having its source at distribution system substations and other
installations shall be in accordance with the environmental laws of Bangladesh. International
standards shall be followed if boundary conditions are missing in the pertinent laws of the
country.

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 CHAPTER 9

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY PROCEDURES

PART-I

CLASSIFICATION OF CONSUMERS

91. Classification of consumers.- (1) The primary classification of consumers into various
categories shall be in accordance with the purpose of use of energy. Further classification under
a particular category shall depend on voltage level which is variable on the quantum of contract
load. Classification of consumers shall be uniform among the distribution licensees. However,
the alphabetic symbol may vary from one distribution licensee to another but this symbol shall
be uniform within a particular distribution licensee’s zonal offices/sub-offices. Symbolic
representation of a particular category may be a single letter or at maximum two letters and
shall be approved by the Commission. Supply conditions and tariff for each category shall be
fixed by the Commission. The classification of general consumers of the distribution licensee
shall be as follows, namely:-

(2) Load exceeding 8 kW or exceeding 10 HP for agricultural load shall be supplied through 3-
phase connection.

41
(3) A consumer shall provide his own substation, including transformer, high voltage control,
protection and power factor correction equipment when the main supply/connection voltage
exceeds 400 volts.

92. Residential.- This category applies to the electricity service through a single watt-hour
meter for lighting and appliances used in a dwelling place, including grounds and
buildings therein.

93. Agricultural pumping.- This category applies to the electricity service through single watt-
hour meter for irrigation and drainage of land for the purpose of cultivation.

94. Small industry.- This category applies to the electricity service through a single watthour
meter for small industry where articles or substances are produced, adopted,
manufactured, altered, repaired, ornamented, finished, packed or treated from raw
materials with a view to their use, sale, transport, delivery and disposal.

95. Non-residential and charitable institution.- This category applies to the electricity service
through a single watt-hour meter for hospitals, educational institutions, religious and
charitable establishments and such other type of consumers.

96. Commercial.- This category applies to the electricity service through a single watt-hour
meter for offices, trading and commercial enterprises such as offices, shops, businesses,
hotels, cinema chains and such other establishments.

97. Large industry/Complex.- This category applies to the electricity service through energy
and demand meters for certain complexes having horizontal spread (like cantonment,
educational institutions, mixed use premises of Government, semi-Government and
autonomous bodies, but excluding high rise residential/multipurpose apartments, housing
projects) where the consumer provides his own substation, including transformer, high
voltage control, protection and power factor correction equipment. Tariff of this category
shall be uniform irrespective of presence of bulk meters for different categories under the
main connection.

98. Street light.- This category applies to the electricity service through a single watt-hour
meter for Pourasava, City Corporation or any public place for the purpose of street
lighting.

99. Water pump.- This category applies to the electricity service through a single watt-hour
meter for WASA, Public Health and any local authority for the purpose of drinking water
pumping stations.

100. Temporary connection.- The temporary connection applies to consumers like exhibition,
fair, camps, meetings, camps/jamboree, parade, construction and such other purposes.
Temporary connection for construction purposes shall be for periods in multiple of

42
 quarters but not exceeding 1(one) year which may be extended for another 1(one) year,
where necessary, by the next higher authority of the distribution licensee.

101. Classification of electricity utilities (distribution licensees).- The classification of

102. Consumers under special agreement.- The distribution licensee may, having regard to the
nature of supply and purpose for which supply is required, fix special tariff and conditions
of supply for the consumers not covered by the classification enumerated in this Code. For
such purposes the distribution licensee may, with approval of the Commission, enter into
special agreements with suitable modifications in Form No. 1 given in Annexure 9. The
tariff in such cases shall be separately approved by the Commission.

103. Reclassification of consumers.- If it is found that a consumer has been classified in a

particular category erroneously or the purpose of supply as mentioned in the agreement
has been changed or the consumption of power has exceeded the limit of that category or
any order of reduction or enhancement of contract demand has been obtained, the
distribution licensee may reclassify him under appropriate category after issuing notice to
him to execute a fresh agreement on the basis of the altered classification or modified
contract demand. If the consumer does not take steps within the time indicated in the
notice to execute the fresh agreement the authorized officer may, after issuing a clear 7
(seven) days show cause notice and after considering his explanation, if any, disconnect
the supply of power.

PART-II

POWER SUPPLY

104. Application for supply of power.- (1) Application for initial supply or subsequent
additional supply of power shall be made in the prescribed form in duplicate. Application
forms may be obtained from the local offices of the distribution licensee at such nominal
cost, as may be determined by the distribution licensee for different categories, or from the
website of the distribution licensee.

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(2) Temporary connection shall not be converted to a regular connection. If regular connection
is required at the location, application in the prescribed Form shall be made, which shall be
processed by the distribution licensee on settlement of temporary connection accounts.
(3) Load demand for new connection or extension of load shall be in integer and shall be 1(one)
KW minimum. Any decimal shall be rounded to next integer.

105. Documentary evidence of lawful occupation may be dispensed with.-

Notwithstanding anything contained in these regulations, the distribution licensee may grant
connection to the premises of any applicant and may, at its discretion, dispense with
documentary evidence of lawful occupation of the premises including land
ownership/purchase/Government allotment deeds. If the applicant is a tenant, no objection
certificate from the land owner shall be submitted additionally. In cases where such
documentary evidence of lawful occupation of the premises is dispensed with, any documentary
evidence regarding electricity connection or payment of bills raised by the distribution licensee
for consumption of electricity shall not constitute evidence for the purpose of lawful occupation
of the premises in any municipal/City Corporation record, revenue record or any court of law.
Explanation.- Any consumer who has been granted connection under this regulation shall be
deemed to be an occupier for the purposes of the distribution licensee notwithstanding that his
occupation is found by any court or tribunal or other authority to be not bonafide or lawful.

106. Date of filing application.- All applications for supply of power shall be filed at least 15
(fifteen) days before the expected date of supply, where distribution mains have been laid
and power supply commenced. In case of high voltage service or service extension of the
distribution licensee's distribution mains the prospective consumer shall submit his
notice/application not less than 45 (forty five) days in advance, provided that application
for load in excess of 5 MW at medium voltage or high voltage shall be made 1 (one) year
in advance.

107. Execution of indemnity bond.- Any applicant who is not the owner of the premises
occupied by him, shall execute an indemnity bond, indemnifying the distribution licensee
against any damages payable on account of any dispute arising out of supply of power to
the premises.

108. Distribution licensee’s right of access over any other person’s land.- Where the
applicant’s premises have no frontage on a street and the service hook from the
distribution licensee's mains has to go over or under the adjoining premises of any other
person (whether or not the adjoining premises is owned jointly by the applicant and such
other person), the distribution licensee shall have the right of access over that land. Any
extra expenditure incurred in placing the service line in accordance with the above shall
be borne by the applicant.

109. Connection for industrial or commercial purpose.- The service connection to an applicant
for industrial or commercial purpose may be given without prejudice to his liability to
obtain permission or sanction, etc. from any other authority or body.

110. Applicants in arrears of electricity dues, etc.- If the applicant is, in respect of an earlier
agreement executed in his name or in the name of his spouse or successor or in the name

44
 of a firm or company with which he was associated either as a partner, Director or
Managing Director, in arrears of electricity dues or other dues for the same premises
payable to the distribution licensee, the application for supply shall not be considered by
the distribution licensee or authorized officer until the arrears are paid in full.

111. Service distance.- (1) Applications for residential or commercial purpose for a load
demand of 3 kW or less within a radius of 0.25 km from existing 6.35/0.230 KV, 11/0.4
kV or 33/0.4 kV substation shall be treated as viable and feasible. Viability and
feasibility shall be examined in other cases. However, service distance i.e., distance from
service take off at pole to the service entry point of the premises shall not exceed 30
meters. Service distance exceeding 30 meters shall require extension of LV lines in
accordance with the distribution licensee’s standard provisions.
(2) Where network extension is needed for providing supply to a housing or other complex, the
same shall be taken up on deposit work basis and the distribution licensee shall provide an
estimate based on field survey and feasibility study.

112. Time frame for communication to the applicant of the result of his application.- Within
15 (fifteen) working days of receipt of the application for supply to LV consumers,
inspection of the premises and fixation of the point of entry of supply mains and the
position of mains, cut-outs or circuit breakers and meters shall be completed by the
distribution licensee by sending notice to the applicant requesting his or his
representative’s or his licensed contractor’s presence. The distribution licensee shall in
no case fix meters and main cut-outs nor shall allow the same to remain in any position
which entails entry of the distribution licensee's employees into private or religious
quarters.
(2) The distribution licensee shall respond to the application for supply to MV/ HV consumers
within 15 (fifteen) days stating whether the connection is feasible or not. If feasible, the
distribution licensee shall intimate voltage at which supply shall be given and point of
commencement of supply.
(3) The distribution licensee shall forward the application for supply at EHV to the
transmission licensee within 7 (seven) days of its receipt for its further processing in terms
of the provisions of the Grid Code. The distribution licensee shall obtain the final reply
regarding feasibility from the transmission licensee and communicate the same to the
applicant within 60 (sixty) working days of receipt of application.

113. Demand Note.- (1) After the point of entry of the supply mains and the position of
mains, cut-outs or circuit breakers and meters have been settled as provided for in the
preceding regulation, the distribution licensee shall supply to the applicant within a
period of one week an estimate of the cost of carrying out the work along with security
deposit required. The distribution licensee shall also forward to the applicant the form for
licensed contractors’ completion and test report. Before the work of laying the service
line is taken up, the applicant shall pay in full the cost of laying the service line as per the
above estimate. (2) If supply is requested at MV or HV the distribution licensee shall
intimate the applicant the estimated charges and time required for providing new
connection within 30 (thirty) working days of notifying feasibility of supply as provided
in the preceding regulation. The distribution licensee shall also forward to the applicant
the form for licensed contractors’ completion and test report. Before the work of laying

45
 the service line is taken up, the applicant shall pay in full the cost of laying the service
line as per the above estimate.
(3) For sub-regulations (1) and (2)’ the rates/charges for installation of line and equipment shall
be fixed by the Commission from time to time, which shall be uniform for all distribution
licensees.
(4) After the deposit has been duly made, orders for taking up the work shall be issued within a
period of 3 (three) working days from the date of deposit. The amount deposited by the
applicant shall be subsequently adjusted, if necessary, on compilation of the figures of the
actual cost of the service lines. The balance amount, if any, shall be refunded to the consumer.
The applicant shall pay any expenditure incurred in excess of the amount deposited by him,
within 15 (fifteen) working days or on demand.
(5) Service lines for temporary connections shall be laid by the distribution licensee where
possible and the estimated cost for laying and removing such service lines together with
estimated energy charge, meter rents, material depreciation, etc. shall be paid by the applicant in
advance on demand by the distribution licensee.
(6) Where any difference or dispute arises as to the cost or fixing of the position of service
lines, the matter shall be referred to BERC for decision.

114. Distribution licensee's obligation to supply.- (1) The supply of power shall be made, if it is
available in the system, technically feasible and beneficial (financially and/or socially) as per
the norms fixed by the distribution licensee with the approval of the Commission, and the
applicant shall enter into an agreement in Form-1 or Form-2, as the case may be, given in
Annexure 9 and Annexure 10 respectively, accepting the terms relating to tariff and other
conditions of supply.
(2) In case the scheme of supply is not remunerative, as mentioned above, the applicant shall be
required to bear the portion of charges to make the scheme remunerative.
(3) The distribution licensee shall supply no additional power unless all arrear charges for the
existing power supply have either been paid in full or paid in accordance with an instalment
facility granted by the distribution licensee for unconditionally paying the arrears within the
stipulated time.

115. Agreement.- Every person whose application for initial supply or subsequent
additional supply of power has been processed by the distribution licensee shall, before taking
such supply, execute an agreement in Form-1 given in Annexure 9 and shall deposit such
security amount as may be prescribed by the distribution licensee. In the case of non-
remunerative schemes, portion of charges as indicated in these regulations, shall also have to be
deposited. Such agreement shall not be required for residential and commercial consumers and
their applications for power supply in Form-2 given in Annexure 10, if accepted, shall
constitute the agreement between the distribution licensee and the consumer. The duplicate
copy of the application in the said Form-2 shall be handed over to the applicant with
endorsement of acceptance for his reference and record.

116. Supplementary agreement.- Whenever the Government, under the Act or the
Electricity Act, 1910 (Act No. I of 1910), imposes any restriction on power supply and power
purchased from other agencies is supplied to the consumer on special request, a supplementary
agreement shall be executed which shall remain in force for the period of such restriction.

46
117. When agreement shall be deemed to have been terminated.- (1) If power supply to
any consumer remains disconnected for 90 (ninety) days or more for non-payment of charges or
dues or non-compliance of any direction under this Code and no effective steps are taken by
the consumer for removing the cause of disconnection and for restoration of power supply, the
agreement of the distribution licensee with the consumer for power supply shall be deemed to
have been terminated on expiry of the said period of 90 (ninety) days, without notice.
(2) On termination of the agreement the distribution licensee shall be competent to remove the
service line and other installation for supply of power from the premises of the consumer.

118. Record of disconnection and reconnection.- The distribution licensee shall

maintain a record of disconnection and reconnection. The distribution licensee shall intimate the
date and the reason of the disconnection to the consumer at the time of disconnection.

119. Security deposit.- (1) Any person entering into an agreement with the distribution
licensee for supply of power shall deposit such amount to cover charges for supply of two
months or less (rounded to next 50 taka) as may be determined by the distribution licensee,
from time to time, for the relevant consumer category based on load factor as under, namely:-

Load factor for different categories of users:

Residential : 30% Water Pump : 50%
Commercial : 40% Irrigation : 33%
Small Industry (LV) : 45% Public Lighting : 50%
Steel Mills : 60% General Purpose : 50%
Large/Heavy Industry : 75%

(2) Alternatively, the distribution licensee may fix security deposit per KW of sanctioned load
(contract demand) for different categories with approval of the Commission.
(3) In case of addition or adjustment of load, no adjustment on the prevailing security deposit
against already approved load shall be claimed by the distribution licensee.
(4) For temporary connection, the advance bill for the estimated unit based on sanctioned load
(minimum 1 kW), period applied for, load factor (general purpose) and applicable tariff shall be
considered as security deposit which shall be deposited in any form mentioned in sub-regulation
(5) by the consumer and shall be refunded to the consumer on realisation of electricity
consumption bills and other receivables.
(5) The security deposit shall be paid in cash or by bank draft or pay order. It may also be paid
by cheque or by credit card where specifically allowed by the distribution licensee or in any
other method adopted by the distribution licensee.
(6) No interest shall be payable on the security deposit during the subsistence of the agreement
unless otherwise decided by the distribution licensee.
(7) The security deposit shall be returned to the consumer only after disconnection of line,
termination of the agreement and after adjustment of outstanding dues, if any, within a period of
two months from the date of termination. In case of non-refund of such security deposit during
the aforesaid period, it shall carry an interest payable to the consumer at the prevailing rate for
surcharge/late payment charge of electricity bills. Before termination of the agreement, the
distribution licensee is entitled to adjust the whole or part of the security deposit towards arrears
payable by the consumer. During continuation of the agreement, when the distribution licensee
adjusts the security deposit towards arrears, the consumer is liable to make up the security
deposit or part of it so adjusted by the distribution licensee.

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120. Service line.- (1) Upon compliance of all conditions including technical feasibility and
viability, the distribution licensee shall lay a service line, which may extend upto a maximum
distance of 35 (thirty-five) meters from the nearest distribution mains to a convenient point on
the boundary of the applicant’s property to which power is proposed to be supplied. The
proportionate cost of LV line, poles and fittings, if any, in excess of the 35 (thirty five) meters
service distance shall be borne by the applicant, unless line extension is done by the distribution
licensee under any development program or otherwise. However, the maximum service distance
for temporary connection may exceed 35 (thirty-five) meters, but such service distance shall not
be regularised during processing of regular/permanent connection:
Provided that in case of temporary supply, the distribution licensee’s estimated cost of laying
the line at the time of connection and removing of service line at the time of disconnection shall
be borne by the applicant.
(2) The energy meters, kVAr meters, where necessary, shall be installed and sealed by the
distribution licensee on payment of installation charges by the consumer on submission of the
wiring certificate.
(3) The service connection shall be connected directly to the meter first then to other
switches/protective devices. There shall be no provision for disconnection in between the
service take-off at pole and the metering arrangement.
(4) Irrespective of the voltage level, there shall be only one service line for a building or a
holding having one/several building/occupancy or a premises having one/several building/
occupancy. In case of several owner for a particular building or holding or premises, separate
accounts may be allowed for each owner but the service line shall be only one adequate to cater
total load and all the meters shall be installed on a single location.
(5) Service drop shall generally be visible upto the point of supply. However, the distribution
licensee may allow underground cable service line by setting specific requirements.
(6) In case of a MV or HV feeder directly taken to the consumer’s premises for his exclusive
use from the distribution licensee’s substation or from the transmission licensee, the metering
arrangement shall be done at the distribution licensee’s source/substation or, if agreed by the
distribution licensee, at the consumer’s premises. In case of a MV or HV consumer supplied
from distribution licensee’s network, the consumer shall provide its own substation and
metering arrangement shall be done at consumer’s premises. When the metering arrangements
are installed in the consumer’s premises, the position of the cut-outs or circuit breakers shall be
so fixed as to permit easy access to the employees of the distribution licensee at any time.
(7) An applicant requiring medium, high or extra high voltage supply must provide and
maintain at his expense a locked and weather proof enclosure of a design approved by the
distribution licensee for the purpose of housing the distribution licensee's metering equipment.
The applicant for his own metering equipment may use such an enclosure.
(8) Where the shifting of the service line within the same premises or at any other location, to
serve applicant’s own interest, is undertaken on the request of the consumer, the entire charge
on account of shifting including the cost of additional materials and labour if any shall be borne
by the consumer and be payable within stipulated time and the distribution licensee shall
commence the work within 15 (fifteen) days after the deposit. In other cases, where shifting is
necessary in public interest or for convenience of the distribution licensee, the consumer shall
extend full co-operation but shall not be required to pay any charges.
(9) The entire service line, notwithstanding that a portion thereof has been paid by the
consumer, shall be the property of the distribution licensee and shall be maintained by it, which

48
shall always have the right to use it for the supply of energy to any other consumer unless the
line has been provided for the exclusive use of the consumer through any special arrangement
agreed to, in writing.

121. Point of supply.- Unless otherwise agreed to, the supply shall be at a single point
at the out-going terminals of the distribution licensee, that is,-
(a) at the meter terminals in the case of low voltage consumers; and (b) at
control switchgear or circuit breaker installed at distribution licensee’s
premises or at metering unit installed in the consumer’s premises as mutually
agreed in the case of medium voltage or high voltage consumers, subject to the
provisions of this Code.

122. Wiring on consumer's premises.- For the protection of the consumer and the
public, it is necessary that the wiring on the consumer's premises should conform to this Code.
The material used for wiring shall comply with the standards laid down in that behalf by the
Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute (BSTI) or any other equivalent standard.

PART-III

APPARATUS ON CONSUMER’S PREMISES

123. Installation of equipments and apparatus of the consumer.- (1) All transformers,
switchgear and other electrical equipment belonging to the consumer and connected to the
mains of the distribution licensee shall be maintained by the consumer to the reasonable
satisfaction of the distribution licensee.
(2) Low voltage consumers shall in all cases and at their cost provide a safety device in the
form of linked quick break main switch and a main fuse on each phase other than the earthed
neutral at the point of commencement of supply. The switch shall be fixed as near as possible to
the meter board or meter box, but after the meter.
(3) In the case of a medium or high voltage consumer, suitable protective devices approved by
the distribution licensee shall be used so as to afford full protection to the distribution licensee's
apparatus placed on the consumer's premises. In the case of a high voltage or extra high voltage
consumer directly connected to a transmission licensee's substation, the distribution licensee
shall obtain the concurrence of the transmission licensee before giving its approval. A medium
voltage consumer or high voltage consumer requiring a supply of 500 kVA or more shall install
at his cost suitable MV/HV switchgear with circuit breakers of approved make with sufficient
rupturing capacity as specified by the distribution licensee on the incoming side of his load
fitted with automatic protective devices, so adjusted that the circuit breakers supplied by the
consumer operate before terminal circuit breaker or the isolating apparatus of the distribution
licensee is activated. A medium voltage consumer requiring supply below 500 kVA shall
provide on the high tension incoming side of his load a gang operated triple pole isolating
switch of approved make with high voltage fuses of fast blowing characteristics or circuit
breaker of adequate rupturing capacity which should be so adjusted that they blow off or
operate before the protective devices in the distribution licensee's terminal circuit breaker or
isolating apparatus operate.

49
(4) Any applicant seeking medium or high voltage connection from the distribution licensee’s
supply system, shall install own substation at a location having adequate space and
accessibility. Layout plan, location, protective and metering arrangement of such substation
shall be approved by the distribution licensee at appropriate stage of processing of the
application seeking power supply.
(5) Medium and high voltage consumers shall install step-down transformers of vector group
DYn11 with neutral terminal brought outside suitably and effectively earthed. The impedance
shall not exceed 5%.
(6) Supply to the consumer may be cut off if the wiring, apparatus, equipment or installation is
found to be defective at any time or if the consumer uses any apparatus or appliance or uses the
energy in such manner as to endanger the service lines, equipment, electric supply mains and
other works of the distribution licensee or interferes with the efficient supply of energy to other
consumers. In case of leakage in the consumer’s premises, provision of this Code shall apply.

124. AC Motor installation.- No AC motor shall be connected to the low or medium voltage
system of the distribution licensee unless the motor and the installation thereof have suitable
devices to limit starting current as detailed below, namely:-
(a) single phase motors upto 7.5 kW may have direct on line starter;
(b) motors more than 7.5 but not more than 25 kW must have star-delta or may have
soft starter;
(c) motors more than 25 kW rating must have soft starter if service to receive from
a common low voltage distribution line, otherwise at least star-delta switch.
(2) Power supply shall not be given to any applicant at low voltage and for utilizing in
induction motors of capacity of three HP and above or welding transformers of capacity of one
kVA and above, unless shunt capacitors of appropriate rating are installed by the consumer
across the terminals of such motors or welding transformers to achieve average monthly power
factor as specified in this Code.
(3) Motors of low voltage shall be provided with control gear so as to prevent satisfactorily the
maximum current demand from the consumer's installation exceeding the limits given in the
following Table at any time under all possible conditions, namely:-

Table

Nature of Size of installation Limit of maximum current

supply demand
Single phase/ Upto and including 1 HP Six times full load current.
Three phase
Above 1 HP and upto and Three times full
including 10 HP load
current
Above 10 HP and upto and Twice full load current
including 15 HP
Above I5 HP 1.5 times full load current.

Failure to comply with the provisions laid down in the Table above shall render the consumer
liable to disconnection from the supply on account of interference with the supply to other

50
consumer. The distribution licensee may, depending on the location and condition of working,
relax starting current limit.
(4) Motor circuits shall be controlled by triple pole linked switch protected by a no-volt release
and triple pole fuses (or overload releases). The release shall be maintained in thorough
working order. Wiring for motors shall be run with all three phase wires bunched in a single
metallic conduit, which shall be efficiently earthed throughout and connected to the frame of
the motor from which two separate earth wires shall be run. The minimum size of the earth wire
permitted is No. 14 Standard Wire Gauge Copper. All motors shall comply in every respect
with the Electricity Rules, 1937, as amended from time to time. Motors above one HP shall be
wound for three-phase, 400 volts between phases.

125. Installation of equipment and apparatus of the distribution licensee.- The

distribution licensee may ask the applicant to provide accommodation to install the distribution
licensee's equipment and apparatus, which may be considered necessary by the authorized
officer for effecting power supply to the applicant. After such accommodation has been
provided by the applicant for fixing the equipment and apparatus, the said installation shall
continue on his premises with full control vested in the distribution licensee. The installation
shall remain in the premises for a reasonable period not exceeding six months even after the
termination of the agreement without payment of any compensation to the owner of the
premises to enable the authorized officer to ensure the supply of power to existing consumers
receiving supply through the said installation.

126. Inspection and testing for new connections.- (1) After compliance with the
provisions of’ this Code by the applicant and upon receipt of the completion report and the test
report by the designated officer, the authorized officer shall give 3 (three) clear days’ notice to
the applicant of the time and the date when his representative proposes to inspect and test the
installation. It shall then be the duty of the applicant to arrange his licensed contractor or other
representative to be present during the inspection to give the distribution licensee or its
representative any relevant information required by it or him concerning the installation. On
due compliance by the applicant the authorized officer shall complete the inspection of
applicant's installation within a period of 7 (seven) days from the date of receipt of the test
report of the licensed contractor.
(2) The distribution licensee shall levy no charge for the first test excepting declared fee of the licensed contractor, but for subsequent tests, if required,
such charge shall be payable as may be prescribed by the distribution licensee.
(3) In case of low voltage consumers,-
(a) before taking the insulation tests of installation, wirings must be complete in
every respect. All fittings such as lamps, fans, cookers, motors, etc. must be
connected up, fuses inserted and all switches placed in the 'ON' position before
the tests are carried out. Temporary wires or fittings or dead ends, shall not be
included in the installation and no part of the work shall be left incomplete. The
insulation resistance of the entire installation to earth shall be tested from the
load side of the distribution licensee's terminals;
(b) the distribution licensee shall not connect the installation on the applicant's
premises with its works unless it is reasonably satisfied that the installation
shall not at the time of making connection cause leakage exceeding one-five
thousandth part of the maximum current supplied to the applicant's premises; any
defects if noticed by the distribution licensee's authorized officer shall be
intimated within 7 (seven) days from the date of inspection to the applicant;

51
 (c) the insulation resistance shall be measured between earth and the whole system
of conductors or any section thereof with all fuses in place and all switches
closed and except in case of earthed concentric wiring all lamps in position or
both poles of the installation otherwise electrically connected together. The
insulation resistance in mega-Ohms of an installation shall not measure less
than 50 divided by the number of points on the circuit provided that the whole
installation have an insulation resistance greater than one mega Ohms; heating
and power appliances and electric signs may if desired be disconnected from
the circuit during the tests but in that event the insulation resistance between the
case or frame work and all live parts of each appliance shall not be less than
that specified in the relevant standard;
(d) the insulation resistance shall also be measured between all conductors
connected to one pole phase conductor and all the conductors connected to the
middle wire or to the neutral or to the other pole or phase conductor of the
supply; such a test shall be made after removing all metallic connections
between the two poles of the installation and in these circumstances insulation
resistance between the two terminals of the installation shall not be less than
that specified above.
(4) In case of high voltage consumers and EHV consumers,-
(a) manufacturer’s test certificates in respect of all HV or EHV apparatus shall be
produced if required;
(b) in addition, the distribution licensee may test the HV or EHV installation, as
the case may be, by applying standard test voltage in accordance with this Code
and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute or International Electro-
technical Commission;
(c) testing of a High Voltage or EHV installation shall however be taken up by the
distribution licensee only after the HV or EHV consumer obtains certificates of
inspection of the installation from the competent person.

127. Approval of consumers installation.- (1) Before any wiring or apparatus of the applicant
including transformers, switch gear, etc. are connected to the distribution licensee’s distribution
system, the same shall be subject to the inspection and approval of the distribution licensee and
no connection shall be made without such approval. In addition, all MV or HV installation shall
have to be approved by the competent authority as required under this Code.
(2) Power supply shall commence when the distribution licensee is satisfied that-
(a) installation is in accordance with the completion and test report as approved by the
authorized officer; and
(b) installation complies with other conditions of this Code.
(3) The authorized officer shall notify the applicant in writing of any defect noticed by him
within 7 (seven) days of inspection. In such cases the authorized officer may allow
commencement of supply only after the defects in the installation are rectified to his
satisfaction. If the applicant receives no intimation within 7 (seven) days of inspection the
installation shall be deemed to have been approved.

128. Commencement of supply.- Within 7 (seven) days of approval of the applicant's

installation, the distribution licensee shall commence supply of power to the applicant under
intimation to him. If the applicant fails to avail of the power within the period of 60 (sixty) days

52
from such intimation, he shall be liable to pay the demand charges and minimum monthly
charges as applicable. The designated authority of the distribution licensee may, in special
circumstances, extend the above period of 60 (sixty) days.

129. Distribution licensee's supply mains and apparatus.- (1) The cost of all
equipments, such as metering equipment and tamper proof boxes etc. for the purpose of
metering, materials and service, except the meter, shall be included in the service connection
estimate and shall be realised from the applicant. The applicant shall have the option of
supplying an appropriate meter to the specification, and with the approval, of the distribution
licensee.
(2) In case the applicant requires the distribution licensee to provide the meter, the distribution
licensee shall do so on such terms and conditions as may be decided by it with the approval of
the Commission.
(3) Notwithstanding the fact that the meter, metering equipment and other apparatus as
indicated above are supplied by the applicant, or paid for by the applicant, the same shall
remain under the control of the distribution licensee so long as the agreement is in force.

130. Safety of installation.- (1) Without prejudice to any other action available under any law
and this Code, supply may be disconnected forthwith if the consumer interferes with any of the
distribution licensee's apparatus installed in the consumer's premises or the service line
provided by the distribution Licensee, if such interference constitutes an immediate danger to
the safety of the installation or personnel.
(2) The consumer shall compensate the distribution licensee for any damage caused to the
mains, apparatus or instruments or any other property of the distribution licensee in the
consumer's premises, occasioned by any act, omission, lapse or negligence on the part of the
consumer or his servants, agents or employees and if supply of power has been disrupted or
disconnected on account of such damage, the supply may be restored after the damage is
assessed and the cost of restoration is deposited by the consumer. The distribution licensee's
decision in regard to the damage caused and the compensation payable assessed on the basis of
current market rate and the cost of restoration as assessed shall be final and binding subject to
the result of the appeal, if any. The consumer may represent to the designated authority of the
distribution licensee in regard to the determination of damage and cost fixed by the distribution
licensee. No damage shall be imposed and no demand for payment of cost shall be raised
without giving clear 7 (seven) days notice to the consumer and reasonable opportunity to him to
make representation, if any.
(3) The distribution licensee shall, in consultation with the consumer, be entitled to lay
necessary overhead and underground mains and install substations, equipment, transformers,
etc. in accordance with the Electricity Rules, 1937 on the private property of the consumer,
required for the purpose of supply of power to him. The consumer shall not be entitled to
interfere with or alter any such installation of the distribution licensee in his premises at any
time for any reason whatsoever. Upon request by the consumer, the authorized officer may
effect any alteration, if feasible, at the cost of the consumer.
(4) The distribution licensee in turn shall maintain its installation in good order. The conductors
and poles shall be maintained in such order as not to cause any electrical or mechanical
accidents or damage to consumer's property and public property or endanger human life.
Prompt action shall be taken by the distribution licensee to repair or replace the damaged parts
immediately on getting intimation of damage or danger to life.

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131. Fuse failure.- If at any time, the distribution licensee’s service fuse or circuit
breaker fails, intimation thereof may be sent to the nearest complaint centre, call center or
section office having jurisdiction over the area for rectifying the defects or replacing the fuse.
None other than the authorized employees of the distribution licensee may replace the fuse in
the distribution licensee's apparatus.

132. Access to consumer’s premises.- With a view to check un-authorized addition and
alteration of equipment, theft and misappropriation of energy, diversion of power, bypassing of
meter for consumption of electricity and for carrying out general inspection and testing, the
distribution licensee or its staff duly authorized by it shall be entitled to enter the premises of a
consumer after informing the consumer. If the consumer refuses to allow access or obstructs the
distribution licensee or its staff from entering into his premises, the distribution licensee or
authorized officer shall, without prejudice to other modes of action available in any law,
disconnect the supply of power of the premises in accordance with the Electricity Act, 1910
(Act No. I of 1910).

133. Preparation of inventory of distribution licensee's installation or inspection

report.- During the checking and verification of the electrical installation in the premises of the
consumer, including the supply line and meter, a complete inventory shall be prepared of all
connected equipment, apparatus, machineries, forming integral part of the installation in the
premises of the consumer. The consumer or his representative shall be requested to sign the
inventory or inspection report. If the consumer or his representative refuses to sign the
inventory or the inspection report an endorsement to that effect shall be made by the authorized
officer on the body of the report. A copy of the said report shall be affixed at the consumer's
premises. In such cases, the consumer shall be deemed to have been served with a copy of the
report. Within one month of service of the report as aforesaid, the consumer shall be entitled to
complain against the correctness of the inventory or the result of the inspection to the
designated authority of the distribution licensee, who shall enquire into the matter of the
complaint and decide on the correctness or otherwise of the report.

134. Addition and alteration to consumer’s installation.- Any addition or alteration to

the consumer's approved installation shall be made only by a licensed electrical contractor, in
case such addition or alteration results in increase of the connected or contract load of the
consumer, prior approval of the distribution licensee shall be obtained.

PART-IV

METERING

135. Operational metering.- The minimum requirement of operational metering at

distribution system substations shall be as follows, namely:- (a) 132kV/33kV or 33/11 kV
substation:
(i) 132/33 kV bus voltage;

54
 (ii) 33/11kV bus voltage;
(iii) 132/33 kV incoming/outgoing current in each phase and each circuit; (iv) power transformer primary and secondary
currents in each phase of every transformer;
(v) 33/11 kV outgoing feeder current in each phase for each feeder;
(vi) power factor in each 33/11 kV feeder;
(vii) load survey meters having memory duration of at least 90 days for all the incoming and outgoing feeders (both
132/33 kV and 33/11 kV); (viii) facility to record energy in MWH and frequency at interval of 30 minutes at point
of connection with transmission licensee;
(b) User’s system with demand:
(i) voltage;
(ii) current;
(iii) load;
(iv) power factor;
(v) active and reactive energy.

136. Tariff and commercial metering.- (1) Tariff metering shall be provided at each
point of connection between the distribution and transmission systems in accordance with the
Grid Code and the power sale agreement with the Bangladesh Power Development Board.
(2) Tariff metering shall be provided at the connection points/interface points between the
user’s system and the distribution system and shall be governed by the provisions of the
power sale agreement with the Bangladesh Power Development Board.
(3) All the meters, instrument transformers (CT/PT), metering cubicles and testing procedures
shall conform to the relevant IEC Standard Specification and the relevant provisions laid
down in the Electricity Act, 1910 (Act No. I of 1910).
(4) The CT/PT deployed for metering of energy supplied to the consumers shall be of class
0.2 accuracy. However, in case of rating of instrument transformers in service, which are of 0.5
class, may continue to be used. These shall also conform to the relevant IEC specifications. On
failure, the same shall be replaced by suitable CT/PT of 0.2 class accuracy after exhausting the
CT/PT of 0.5 class accuracy. It is desirable that the distribution licensee shall purchase new
CT/PT of 0.2 class accuracy.
(5) The open access consumer, generating company, distribution licensee and traders shall
provide meters, as may be specified by the Commission for such consumers based on
voltage, point and period of supply and tariff category (as also incorporated in the Grid
Code).

137. Measurement of energy import/export.- The distribution licensees shall install the
following meters for all of their sub-transmission lines connecting the generating stations, and
substations for the measurement of energy import/export from each connection point/interface
point, energy generated in generating units and energy consumed in power stations and
substations, namely:- (a) active energy import;
(b) active energy export;
(c) reactive energy import; (d)
reactive energy export.
(2) Each metering point associated with the determination of energy exported or imported, between the
generating companies, transmission licensees and distribution licensees shall be provided with both

55
 main and check meters. The minimum standard of accuracy of these meters shall be of accuracy class
0.2. These meters shall conform to the relevant IEC specifications. However, the distribution licensee
shall continue to use the available meters, until they are exhausted in their inventory. The meter to be
purchased after implementation of this Code shall be the meter of 0.2 class accuracy.
(3) All the instrument transformers used in conjunction with commercial (tariff) metering shall also be of
accuracy class 0.2 and conform to the relevant IEC specifications. The rating shall be suitable for
catering the burdens of lead wires and metering. However, in case of rating of instrument
transformers in service, which are of 0.5 classes, may continue to be used. These shall also conform
to the relevant IEC specifications. On failure, the same shall be replaced by suitable CT/PT of 0.2
class accuracy after exhausting the CT/PT of 0.5 class accuracy. It is desirable that the distribution
licensee shall purchase new CT/PT of 0.2 class accuracy.
(4) Data collection shall be used to integrate impulses from meters over each integration period as per
agreement, store values, and to transmit the same to the data collection system of the distribution
licensee. Data shall be collected from both the main and check metering schemes.
(5) The meter shall be capable to record voltage/current failure on loss of one or more phases Formatted:
Highlight to the meter.

(6) Main and check meters shall be provided at all connection points/ interface points. All the Formatted:
Highlight meters shall be tested and calibrated according to the guidelines provided in the relevant IEC
specifications at least once a year and also whenever the difference in readings between the main and
check meters exceed 0.5%.
(7) Records of these calibrations and tests shall be maintained for reference.
(8) The generating companies, transmission licensees and distribution licensees shall formulate and
agree upon a procedure covering summation, collection and processing of tariff meter readings at
various interconnection sites of their area. Whenever necessary, these procedures can be revised.
(9) The ownership, responsibility of maintenance and testing of these meters shall be as mutually agreed
to between the users and the concerned licensees.
(10) The term “meter”, used in this regulation, shall include current transformers, Formatted:
Highlight voltage/potential transformers, wiring between them and meter box/panel.

138. Installation of meters.- (1) Formatted:Initial power supply shall not be given either by the Highlight distribution
licensee or by the consumer without a correct meter. Meters shall be installed at the point of' supply or, if not possible, at a
suitable place as the distribution licensee may decide. The same shall be fixed preferably in the basement or ground floor of
multistoried buildings where it shall be easily accessible for reading and inspection at any time. If there is more than one
meter, all the meters shall be located at the same place, easily accessible and outside the rooms, irrespective of the account’s
ownership. There shall be only one service line for a building or a holding having one/several building/occupancy or
premises having one/several building/occupancy. A consumer seeking HT connection, a meter room of approved design has
to be constructed. Suitable space has to be provided at consumer’s territory free of cost by the consumer. Other costs are to be
borne as per prevailing practices. The consumer shall run his wiring from such point of supply and shall be responsible, as
custodian of the metering equipment, for the safety of the meter or metering equipment on his premises from theft, damage or
interference. While a consumer is served through a dedicated radial line, a backup meter is to be installed at the source end
substation for check purpose. Any difference excluding line loss if exceeds 0.5%, the matter has to be investigated and
corrected as appropriate. If the discrepancy continues for several months, meter/metering system to be replaced as needed to
rectify. In case of any damage the liability shall go to the
consumer and the consumer has to pay for the repair or replacement. In this case the concerned
distribution licensee may figure out estimated units of electricity as per provisions of this Code.
(2) All the commercial shops/establishments in a market/holding/building/premises shall be
under a single meter.

56
 (3) Prepaid meters shall be located in similar manner. However, the interface units (if any) may
be located inside the room. If individual and exposed service drop is designed for prepaid meter
connection, the restriction of single service per premises/holding may be relaxed.
(4) In case of MV and HV connection, the metering at consumer’s premises shall be placed in a
separate room or a space properly partitioned having minimum dimension of 2 meter x 2.5
meter.
(5) Meters and, where applicable, associated equipment and accessories shall be supplied by the
consumer or by the distribution licensee on rental arrangement. It shall be optional on the part
of the consumer to purchase meter from distribution licensee’s stores. All meters shall be
Formatted: Highlight tested by the distribution licensee prior to installation.

139. Meters in case of medium or high voltage supply.- In the case of medium or high
voltage supply, if a MV/ HV metering set cannot be readily provided and installed, LV
metering set shall be provided and connected on the LV side of the consumer's transformers. To
the reading of such metering set, shall be added the average losses in the transformers
calculated as follows, namely:-
(a) energy loss in transformer in units per month = k x (730 x Rating of
transformer in kVA)÷100, where k = 0.3 LF + 0.7 LF2 and LF stands
for load factor. Consider 0.6 for cities and 0.4 for the rest areas; (b) demand
loss in transformer in kVA = One percent of the rating of the
transformer in kVA.

140. Sealing of meters.- The meters and associated equipment shall be properly sealed
by the Formatted: Highlight authorized officer and acknowledgement thereof shall be obtained from
the consumer. The seals, nameplates, distinguishing numbers or marks affixed on the said
equipment or apparatus shall not be interfered with, broken, removed or erased by the
consumer. The meter, metering equipment, etc. shall on no account be handled or removed by
any one except under the authority of the distribution licensee. The authorized officer can do so
in the presence of the consumer or his representative. An acknowledgement shall be taken from
the consumer or his representative when the seal is broken. Supply shall not be
restored/commenced in the absence of such acknowledgement.

141. Check meter.- (1) The consumer may, after giving notice to the distribution
licensee, have a check meter tested by the distribution licensee installed at his own expense in
his incoming line by the side of the distribution licensee's meter. In case of difference in
readings between the distribution licensee's meter and consumer's check meter, the readings of
the distribution licensee's meter shall be taken to be conclusive. The consumer may demand the
distribution licensee's meter to be tested by an authorized officer of the Commission whose
decision shall be final and binding on the consumer and the distribution licensee. The consumer
shall be required to pay a fee for such testing. If the meter is found incorrect after testing, the
distribution licensee shall refund the fee paid by the consumer.
(2) In case of installations having more than 8 (eight) meters, the consumer shall be required to install
a check meter to record total consumptions of the installation. The difference of readings of the check
meter and summation of individual meters shall be billed by the distribution licensee at the highest
tariff among the other meters. The check meter shall bear an account number and sanctioned load
excluding contract load of other meters.

Inspection of meters and measures to be taken when they are found defective,

57
142. Formatted: Highlight

tempered, missing, etc. (1) The meter and associated equipment shall be inspected by an
authorized officer of the distribution licensee prior to their commissioning in the service. If the
authorized officer has reason to believe that the meter is incorrect, he may, at any time after
giving 7 (seven) days notice to the consumer, remove the existing meter for the purpose of
testing in accordance with the Electricity Rules, 1937. The consumer shall not be entitled to
object to such removal.
(2) Where the consumer has supplied the meter and the meter becomes defective in service or
found to be missing, the consumer shall, on such defects or loss being noticed by him or
notified to him by the authorized officer, remove the defects or, as the case may be, replace the
meter within a period not exceeding 30 (thirty) working days. The authorized officer shall,
within 7 (seven) working days of noticing the defect or loss, advise the consumer for necessary
test, repair or replacement of the meter. Should the consumer desire to get the meter tested or
rectified in the distribution licensee’s testing laboratory, he may do so by depositing the fees
prescribed by the distribution licensee and the distribution licensee shall have it tested within a
period of 7 (seven) working days from the date of deposit. Failure to rectify or replace the meter
within the above period shall result in disconnection after 7 (seven) clear days notice to the
consumer.
(3) Where the distribution licensee has supplied the meter and the meter becomes defective in
service, the distribution licensee shall remove the meter and test the same as provided in sub-
regulation (1).
(4) If after testing, the meter is found defective not due to tampering or deliberate damage, the
defective meter shall be replaced by another tested meter supplied by the distribution licensee
without any charge to the consumer within 10 (ten) days from the date of removal of meter from
consumer’s premises.
( ) If the meter is found to be missing, or after inspection or testing if the meter is found
5 to
Formatted: Highlight
have been tampered with or damaged, the distribution licensee may call upon the consumer to deposit the cost of
replacement of meter along with other normal and penal charges within 7 (seven) working days. The distribution
licensee shall install a tested meter within 7 (seven) working days of the deposit of such cost and charges by the
consumer.
(6) If a meter or metering equipment has been found to have tampered or there is resistance by the consumer to the
replacement of obsolete or defective meters by the distribution licensee, the authorized officer may disconnect the
supply immediately and at the same time shall give the consumer in writing the reason for such disconnection.
(7) Should the consumer dispute the accuracy of any meter which is not his own property, he
may, upon giving notice and paying the fees, prescribed therefor by the distribution licensee,
have the same tested by the distribution licensee within a period of one month from the date of
deposit of such fees.
(8) Due notice to the consumer shall be served by the distribution licensee to be present Formatted : Highlight

during the test. The distribution licensee shall have the option to carry out and conclude the test in absence of the
consumer after expiry of the notice period. The billing for the period the Formatted: Highlight meter remains defective or
unavailable from the date of reporting to the date of its installation after repair or replacement shall be revised in
accordance with regulation 143. The accuracy tolerance of the meter under test shall be in accordance with the relevant
IEC or BDS.

58
 (9) If the meter is found to be incorrect after testing, fees paid by the consumer shall be returned to the consumer. If the
meter is found incorrect after test, the electricity bills may be Formatted: Highlight adjusted beyond the acceptable range
for a maximum period of last 3 (three) months bill.
(10) The repair or adjustment of a meter found to be defective should be done so as to bring the percentage of
the error within the prescribed limits of accuracy in accordance with the relevant IEC or BDS. In case the
adjustment or repair is not possible, another tested meter shall replace the defective meter within a period of 7
(seven) working days.
(11) In the event of any difference or dispute on the accuracy of any meter, the same shall be Formatted: Highlight
decided on an application by either party to the Commission.

Billingcommercial,
143. residential, with defective or lost
small meters.
industry, (1) For thepumping
agricultural period the
andmeter other than
agricultural that of
consumers Formatted: Highlight

remained defective or lost, the billing shall be done on the basis of average meter reading for the
consecutive six billing periods preceding the billing period in which the defect or loss was noticed:
Provided that if the meter becomes defective or is lost before expiry of six billing periods Formatted: Highlight from the date of
commencement of supply, the bill shall be prepared on the basis of average of readings of six consecutive billing periods
after the meter is rectified or replaced.
(2 In case of defective or lost meters of commercial, small industry and agricultural Formatted: Highlight
) pumping, the billing
for the period the meter
remained defective or lost shall be done on the basis of the prevailing tariff and existing regulations.
(3) In case of residential consumers,- Formatted: Highlight

(a) if a working meter is reported as defective within three months of such defect
being detected either by the consumer or by distribution licensee, billing for the
period shall be done based on the average of readings for the preceding six
consecutive billing periods;
(b) if the defect or loss of meter is not reported within three months of the defect
Formatted: Highlight or loss, billing shall be done on the basis of the three months average from
prevailing or following bills which ever is higher.
(4) If the readings of meter working in association with Current Transformers (CT) and
Potential Transformer (PT) and other auxiliary equipment, if any, are found to be incorrect
on account of wrong connection or disconnection of such CTs PTs and other equipment or
on account of omissions or commissions in regard to multiplying factor, erroneous adoption
of CT ratio, PT ratio, the billing in such cases shall be done in such manner as may be
prescribed by the Commission by regulations.

144. Reading of meters.- (1) Reading of meters shall be taken by qualified persons authorized
by the distribution licensee at intervals of two months or such lesser period as the distribution
licensee may determine. The meter readers shall have access to the consumer's premises at all
reasonable times for the purpose of meter readings. The readings of each meter shall be entered
by such reader in the meter reading book and in the meter reading card at consumer end, and the
signature of the consumer or his representative shall be obtained therein except where meters
have been installed on the ground floor for a group of apartments or a group of houses in a
common area. The distribution licensee may adopt alternative technically advanced practices
like Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) or Remote Meter Reading (RMR) and so on for
consumer's information of meter readings. The meter reader shall be supplied by the

59
distribution licensee with a photo identity card, which he shall show to the consumer on
demand.
(2) If for any reason whatsoever, the meter installed in the consumer's premises is not
accessible and meter reading cannot be taken, the bills shall be raised provisionally on the basis
of consumption last recorded subject to subsequent revision on the basis of actual meter
reading.
(3) If the authorized officer apprehends that the consumer is deliberately avoiding the
inspection of meter and meter reading, he may give 7 (seven) clear days notice by registered
post or by special messenger to the consumer to remain present in the premises on the date and
time mentioned in the notice. If the consumer defaults, the authorized officer may take steps for
disconnection of supply after giving twenty-four hours notice to the consumer.

145. Fees for testing.- To maintain uniformity among the distribution licensees, the
rates of fees for testing of meter, CT, PT, Transformer, and other associated equipment shall be
prescribed by the Commission from time to time.

146. Loss accounting.- (1) The transformer loss on the basis of methods stated in this
Code shall be added to bill units as per provisions of this Code.
(2) If the meter for MV or HV or EHV consumer is not installed at the source point, the line
loss shall be added to the billing units by an amount in percentage set by the Commission.
(3) If any feeder/line is shared by more than one distribution licensee, the line loss for any
period shall be shared in proportion to kWh-Km, where kWh is the import at substations of
respective distribution licensee and distances are from feeder/line origin to the substations.
(4) The line loss, if applicable, shall be in addition to transformer loss, if any.

PART-V

CONTRACT DEMAND

147. Connected load and contract demand.- (1) Contract demand for a connected load
below 100 KW shall be the same as the connected load. Contract demand for loads of 100 KW
and above shall be as stipulated in the agreement and may be different from the connected load.
(2) Prior to actual connection, load may be retained for a certain period in multiples of quarters
but not exceeding 1 (one) year through a contract between the distribution licensee and
prospective customer. The fees may be calculated based on contract demand in KW, duration of
load retention and rate per unit load as may be determined by the distribution licensee from
time to time.

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148. Reduction of contract demand.- (1) Every application for reduction of contract
demand shall be made to the designated authority of the distribution licensee.
(2) No application for reduction in contract demand shall be entertained within three months
from the date of commencement of initial or revised supply unless the agreement provides
otherwise.
(3) Contract demand above 20 KW shall not be allowed to be reduced more than once within a
period of thirty-six months from the date of initial supply or from the date of last reduction.
Contract demand of 20 KW and below shall not be allowed to be reduced more than once
within a period of twelve months from the date of initial supply or from the date of last
reduction. The designated authority of the distribution licensee may, for reasons to be
recorded in writing, allow such reduction more than once within the aforesaid period of
thirty six months or twelve months, as the case may be.
(4) Every application for reduction of contract demand shall he accompanied by-
(a) such processing fees as may be notified by the distribution licensee for the particular
category of consumer;
(b) test report from the licensed contractor where alteration of installation is
involved;
(c) meter reading of the previous three months; and
(d) letter of approval of competent authority, where applicable.
(5) No permission shall be granted to reduce the contract demand if on a consideration of the
investment made by the distribution licensee for effecting power supply to the consumer,
the reduction is likely to result in the investment becoming not remunerative according to
the norms fixed by the distribution licensee with the approval of the Commission, unless the
consumer is agreeable to bear the financial burden of making the investment viable due to
such reduction.
(6) Decision on a consumer's application for reduction of contract demand shall be taken by the
designated authority of the distribution licensee within 60 (sixty) days of receipt of
complete application. No application shall be rejected without recording reasons. The order
on the application shall be communicated to the consumer by registered post.
(7) When the designated authority of the distribution licensee permits reduction of contract
demand, the effective date of such reduction shall be reckoned from the first day of the month
following the month in which the authorized officer received the application, complete in all
respects.

149. Enhancement of contract demand.- (1) Every application for enhancement of contract
demand shall be made to the designated authority of the distribution licensee and accompanied
by-
(a) such processing fee as may be notified by the distribution licensee for the particular
category of the consumer;
(b) test report from the licensed contractor where alteration of the installation is
involved; and
(c) letter of approval of competent authority, where app1icable.
(2) An application for the enhancement of the contract demand may not be considered if-
(a) the additional power cannot be supplied at the existing voltage of supply of the
distribution licensee and the consumer is not willing to avail the power at higher voltage at

61
which the distribution licensee is able to supply; or (b) the consumer is not agreeable
to bear that part of the estimated cost of necessary additions or alterations in the
system as is required to make it remunerative according to the norms fixed by the
distribution licensee with the approval of the Commission;
(c) the consumer is in arrears of payment of distribution licensee’s dues.
(3) If, as a result of the enhancement of contract demand, the classification of the consumer
changes, the designated authority of the distribution licensee may, before allowing the
application, call upon the consumer to execute fresh agreement, subject to compliance of
other conditions prescribed under this Code.

PART-VI

SYSTEM OF SUPPLY

150. System of supply.- (1) The declared frequency of A.C. supply is 50 Hz.
(2) The declared voltage of A.C. supply (expressed as nominal system voltages) is as follows,
namely:-
(a) low voltage- single phase, 230 V, between phases and neutral, and
three phase, 400 V, between phases;
(b) medium voltage- three phase 11 kV between phases or 6.35 kV
between phases and neutral or ground;
(c) high voltage- three phase 33 kV between phases;
(d) extra high voltage- three phase more than 33 kV between phases.
(3) The distribution licensee shall, depending on the contract demand of the consumer,
determine the voltage of supply. The supply voltage for the contract demands shall normally be
as follows, namely:-
(a) for contract demand not exceeding 8 kW, excepting in the case of irrigation
pumps and agricultural services, supply shall be at single phase, two wires and
230 volts. For contract demand in the ranges 4 kW to 8 kW, with the exception
of rural consumers, the consumer also has the option of single phase 230 volts
or 3 phase 400 volts;
(b) for irrigation pumping and agricultural service load of 10HP and below,
supply shall be at single phase, two wire and 230 volts, between phase and
neutral, or 3 phase, 3 or 4 wires and 400 volts between phases;
(c) for contract demands of the range of 8 KW to 50 kW, supply shall be 3 phase
400 volts, 3 or 4 wires;
(d) for contract demand of above 50 kW but below 1,000 kVA, supply shall be at
3 phase, 3 or 4 wires at 6350 volts to neutral/ ground or 11000 volts phase to
phase, provided that the consumer already connected at LT may be allowed to
continue to receive power;
(e) for contract demand of 1,000 kVA and above but below 5000 kVA, supply
may be given at 3 phase, 3 or 4 wires at 11,000 volts or 33,000 volts phase to
phase depending on the convenience of the distribution licensee;

62
 (f) for contract demand of 5,000 kVA and above but below 25,000 kVA, supply
shall be at 3 phases, 3 wires at 33000 volts;

(g) for contract demand of 25,000 kVA and above, supply shall be at 3 phase, 3
wires EHV:
Provided that the distribution licensee, at its discretion, may also supply at any other voltage
depending on system availability or condition. In case of connection to another distribution
licensee, the capacity limit may be relaxed/extended.

151. Power factor.- (1) The consumer of such category as may be designated by the
Commission shall so arrange his installation that the average power factor of his load during
any billing period is maintained not less than 0.95 lagging or any other limit set by the
Commission. Power factor penalty with or without capping limit as set by the Commission shall
be levied if there is a breach of the aforesaid requirement, however, the supply of power shall
be disconnected serving 7 (seven) days notice for rectification if the average power factor in 3
consecutive billing cycle falls below 0.70 :
Provided that there shall be no disconnection without giving the consumer 7 (seven) clear days
notice in writing to show cause to the authorized officer why the supply of power should not be
disconnected. If, after considering the reply to the show cause notice, the authorized officer
decides to disconnect, he shall communicate his order to the consumer and disconnect supply
after 7 (seven) days of such communication.
(2) Power factor shall be determined for the entire billing period by utilizing kWh and kVArh
for the respective months. Instantaneous power factor reading may be recorded for monitoring
but shall not be used for billing purpose. Power factor penalty shall not be applicable where
kVArh meter is not available or functional. If kVarh meter is not functional the power factor
shall be determined, till rectification of the meter, on the basis of last three months average.
(3) However, power factor of Master/Mother/Check Account shall be determined by deducting
the  kWh and  kVArh of Child/Supplementary/Sub-Account(s). In absence of  kVArh of
Child/Supplementary/Sub-Account(s), the kVArh of Master/Mother/Check meter shall be
calculated in proportion of kWh.

152. Balance of load.- A consumer taking two or three phase supply shall balance his
load in such a way that the difference in loading of each phase does not exceed 5% of average
loading between the phases. If the unbalanced current in phases is more than 20%, the
supply/service connection may be disconnected with prior notice for rectification of the
unbalanced current.

153. Parallel operation with distribution licensee's system.- (1) The consumer shall
arrange plant, machinery and apparatus of his generating station including any extension of or
addition to the same to operate in an isolated mode from the distribution licensee's system.
Parallel operation is permissible only with the consent of the Commission following clearance
of PGCB. The National Load Despatch Centre (NLDC) shall be informed in time before
synchronization, if generation is more than 5MW, with the national grid for parallel operation
of any generating station. Any generator connected to national grid shall be under the control of
NLDC.
(2) In cases where such consent has been given, the consumer shall so arrange his installation
that the distribution licensee or the authorized officer does not become liable for any damage

63
caused to the consumer's plants, machinery, and apparatus on account of such parallel
operation, or any adverse consequences arising therefrom.

PART-VII

CHARGES FOR SUPPLY

154. Tariffs and charges.- Such tariffs and charges for supply of electricity shall be applied by
the distribution licensee as may be determined and approved by the Commission under the
Act. Such tariffs or charges shall take effect on such date as may be indicated by the
Commission and any tariff change shall be published in at least two daily newspapers
having wide circulation in the area of supply. The charges may include-
(a) minimum monthly charges;
(b) demand charges;
(c) service charges;
(d) energy charges; and (e) other charges.

155. Minimum monthly charges.- Every consumer, during continuance of agreement under
these regulations, shall be liable to pay a minimum monthly charge even if no electricity is
consumed for any reason whatsoever or supply has been disconnected due to default of the
consumer. Minimum charge includes energy charge and demand charge but excludes
service charge, VAT and rents, if any.
156. Demand charges.- (1) A Monthly demand charge shall be payable by the consumer on the
basis of maximum demand and contract demand as determined in the tariff notification. In
case maximum demand meter is not provided or the meter has become defective, the
monthly demand charge shall be payable on the basis of contract demand as determined in
the tariff notification.
(2) Such monthly demand charge shall be payable during the continuance of the agreement
even if no electricity is consumed for any reason whatsoever or supply has been disconnected
due to default of the consumer.
(3) During statutory power-cuts and power restrictions imposed by the distribution licensee, if
the restriction on demand is imposed for a period exceeding sixty hours in a month, the monthly
demand charge shall be prorated in accordance with the period and quantum of demand
restrictions imposed. In all other cases the consumer shall be liable to pay the full demand
charge.
(4) If demand meter is absent or not functional, the billing demand shall be determined as
under, namely:-
first 75 kW : 100%
next 75 kW : 85%
next 75 kW : 75%
next 75 kW : 65%
rest kW : 60%

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157. Service charges.- A monthly service charge shall be payable by the consumer which
includes consumer service related expenses such as metering, meter reading, billing,
collection, etc.

158. Energy charges.- The energy charge as prescribed in the distribution licensee's tariff shall
be payable by the consumer on the basis of actual consumption of the energy.

159. Other charges.- The distribution licensee may levy such other charges including customer
charges, connection charges, re-connection charges delayed payment surcharge, fuel
surcharge, power purchase surcharge and power factor penalty as may be approved by the
Commission, from time to time.

160. Statutory levies.- Statutory levies such as electricity duty or value added tax (VAT) shall
be payable by the consumer on demand.

161. Prepaid meters.- The categories of consumers, as mentioned in this Chapter, shall be the
same for prepaid meters. There may be such rebate on energy charges for the consumers
having prepaid meters as may be approved by the Commission.

162. Rounding of charges.- All charges shall be rounded to the Taka. Paisa 50 (fifty) or more
shall be rounded to 1 (one) Taka and any amount below paisa 50 (fifty) shall not be taken
into account .
PART-VIII

PAYMENT OF BILLS

163. Despatch of bills.- It shall be the duty of the distribution licensee or its authorized
agent to ensure that the bills are despatched within 10 (ten) days from the end of billing
cycle and records of such despatch are duly maintained.

164. Billing.- (1) The charges payable by a consumer for supply of electrical power and other
sums payable to the distribution licensee shall be billed on prorata monthly basis
indicating the period for which charges have been levied and the consumer shall pay the
billed amount by the due date indicated on the bill or within a period of 7 (seven) days
from the date of receiving the bill which is the later. If for any reason the consumer does
not receive the bill for the billing cycle within two weeks of the end of the billing cycle, it
shall be the obligation of the consumer to approach the authorized officer and collect a
duplicate bill (without any alteration of charges and dates). When supply to a new
consumer is commenced or an agreement is terminated on a day other than the first day of
a month, demand charges and other charges as applicable under tariff notification shall be
levied pro rata for the number of days during the month for which supply shall have been
given or agreement shall have been in force.
(2) The consumer has to make full payment of bill within the due date even if he raises a
dispute regarding the correctness of the bill, provided that a consumer with connected load of

65
 10 KW or less shall pay at least the undisputed amount of the bill or 50% of the bill whichever
is higher, pending the distribution licensee's decision on the dispute.
(3) For prepaid meters, by nature, the customer has to pay first then use. Realization of charges
other than energy charges, applicable for a billing cycle, shall be ensured by suitable
implementation scheme, preferably within the meters.

165. Disputed or erroneous bill.- (1) The distribution licensee shall resolve the dispute, if any,
raised by a consumer and communicate its decision to him within 15 (fifteen) days of raising
such dispute.
(2) If the distribution licensee finds the bill to be erroneous, a revised bill shall be furnished to
the consumer indicating a revised due date. Excess amount paid by the consumer shall be
refunded by way of adjustment in the subsequent bill.
(3) If the distribution licensee finds the bill to be correct, the consumer shall be intimated
accordingly and notified to pay the balance, if any, within 15 (fifteen) days with interest at the
prevailing rate for surcharge or late payment charge from the due date. If the distribution
licensee does not resolve the dispute within two months, the consumer shall not be liable to pay
the interest on the balance amount. However, if the dispute is not resolved due to negligence or
non-cooperation of the consumer, the consumer shall be liable to pay interest.
(4) Failure to make payment as provided under this regulation shall call for action as provided
in regulation168..

166. Payment.- (1) The billed amount shall be paid by the consumer either in cash or by bank draft or banker's cheque, or where specifically allowed
by the distribution licensee, by account payee cheque or credit/ATM card or bank transfer (electronic/manual) or web-online or cell-phone flexi or any
other method as may be adopted by the distribution licensee.
(2) If the due date indicated in the bill for payment of the amount is a public holiday, the
amount may be paid on the succeeding working day, without any surcharge or late payment
charge.
(3) Numeric Token, Smart Card, GSM/SMS recharge/refill and any other suitable system of
recharging adopted by the distribution licensee shall also constitute bill payment facilities.

167.Adjustment of the amount paid.- The amount paid by the consumer shall be first adjusted
towards electricity duty provided that in case of part payment by the consumer, the
proportionate share of the duty from the total collection shall be adjusted first. Out of the
balance, adjustments shall be made in the following order of priority, namely:-
(a) current electricity charges;
(b) current miscellaneous charges;
(c) arrear electricity charges; (d) arrear miscellaneous charges; (e) delayed payment surcharge.

168.Consequence of negligence or failure in making payment of charges, etc.- Where a

consumer neglects to pay the charges or dues or any part of the charges or dues, the
authorized officer may, after giving him not less than 10(ten) days notice in writing and
without prejudice to the other rights and modes available for realization of the amount,
disconnect the supply until the charges or dues and reconnection charges are paid by the
consumer. Failure to take steps for clearance of the dues, within a period of two months
from the date of service of bill shall render the agreement liable to termination, provided
that initial period of agreement is over.

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169.Rebate.- (1) Payment of the billed amount in time shall entitle the categories of consumers,
specified in the tariff order under the Act, to a rebate on such amount for the current billing
period. Every bill shall indicate the amount payable by the relevant category of consumer if
payment is made within the prescribed due date and the amount payable if the payment is
made beyond the prescribed due date. The categories of consumers who are entitled to a
rebate and the rate or rates of such rebate shall be determined by the distribution licensee,
from time to time, as part of the tariff as approved by the Commission.
(2) Consumers having prepaid meters may be allowed rebate and the rate or rates of such rebate
shall be determined by the distribution licensee, from time to time, as part of the tariff as
approved by the Commission.

170. Delayed payment surcharge.- The consumers to whom delayed payment

surcharge is applicable as per tariff order shall be liable to pay such delayed payment surcharge
at the rate of 5 (five) per cent or at such other rate as may be determined by the Commission,
from time to time, for default in payment of charges by due date. There shall be no surcharge
over surcharge.
171. Installment facilities.- Payment of bills by installments may be granted by the
distribution licensee to any consumer on his request. Grant of installments shall not affect the
liability of the consumer to pay delayed payment surcharge till full clearance of the arrears.
Consumers using installment facilities shall not be eligible to avail rebate. The distribution
licensee may designate the authority to grant installment facilities. The electricity bill for any
month shall not be split in allowing installments.

172. Recovery of arrears.- In addition to other modes of recovery available under any
law, the distribution licensee shall be entitled to take recourse to proceedings for realisation of
the distribution licensee's dues if such dues are treated as public demand.

PART-I

PROHIBITIONS

173. Assignment without permission.- (1) No consumer shall assign the agreement or
transfer or part with the benefits under the agreement in favour of any other person without the
express consent or approval of the distribution licensee in respect of residential and commercial
consumers, and the designated authority of the distribution licensee in respect of other
categories of consumers. In case of death of a consumer who is an individual, his legal heir or
successor in interest or legatee may be given recognition as a consumer in place of the
deceased.
(2) Any connection which has been transferred or parted with without valid authority shall be
liable for disconnection of supply immediately after calling for explanation and considering the
explanation submitted, if any, and not accepted by the distribution licensee. This may be in
addition to any other action the distribution licensee is authorized to take under any law and this
Code.

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 174. Re-sale, transfer, dishonest abstraction and theft of energy.- (1) No consumer shall sell or
transfer or divert power to any person or premises unless the agreement so provides.
(2) No consumer shall make use of power in excess of the approved contract demand or use
power for a purpose other than the one for which agreement has been executed or shall
dishonestly abstract power from the distribution licensee's system.

Penal charges.- (1) On detection of unauthorized use in any manner by a consumer, the 175. Formatted: Highlight

load connected in excess of the authorized load shall be treated as unauthorized load. If the
meter is found accurate and not tampered the quantum of unauthorized consumption shall be
determined in the same ratio as the unauthorized load stands to the authorized load.
(2 When there is interference with the meter, the energy quantum shall be calculated Formatted: Highlight on total
) based connected load, which is
authorized plus unauthorized load, period of unauthorized
use and the load factor given in this Code. Formatted: Highlight
(3 The period of unauthorized use shall be determined by the distribution licensee as one Formatted: Highlight year prior
to) the date of detection or
from the initial date of supply if less than one year from
the date of detection. If the consumer provides evidence to the contrary, the period may be varied
according to such evidence. The authorized officer may levy penal charges in addition to the normal
charges for aforesaid period of unauthorized use. Where addition of the unauthorized installation or
sale or diversion would result in a reclassification according to this Code, the whole of the power
drawn shall be deemed to have been drawn in the reclassified category. The consumer shall also be
required to execute a fresh agreement under the reclassified category.
(4) The penal energy charges for unauthorized use of power shall be 3 (three) times the Formatted: Highlight
charges applicable to the particular category of consumer.
(5) The penal demand charges for unauthorized use of power shall be calculated on
unauthorized connected load expressed in KW multiplied by two times the rate of demand
charges applicable.

176. Force majeure and restriction on power supply.- (1) The distribution licensee or the
consumer shall not be liable for any claim for loss, damage or compensation whatsoever arising
out of failure of supply when such failure is due either directly or indirectly to mutiny, war,
civil commotion, riot, strike, lockout, fire, flood, tempest, lightning, earthquake or other force
accident or cause beyond its or his control.
(2) In the event of restriction on power supply imposed by the Government under the Act or the
Electricity Act, 1910 (Act No. I 1910), the distribution licensee shall be under no obligation
to supply energy contracted for.
(3) The consumer shall curtail or stagger or altogether stop using electricity when so directed
by the distribution licensee or the designated authority of distribution licensee if the power
supply position or any other emergency in the distribution licensee's system of supply warrants
such a course.
(4) The distribution licensee shall be entitled for the purpose of maintenance of its supply
system to temporarily discontinue supply of power to any area for such period as may be
reasonably necessary subject to such advance notice as may be feasible.
(5) If at any time during the continuance of the agreement between the distribution licensee and
the consumer, the plant or premises of the consumer is destroyed or damaged due to force

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majeure conditions referred to in this regulation resulting in break-down or rendering the plant
or the premises wholly or substantially unfit for occupation or use, the consumer may, on giving
7 (seven) days notice in writing to the distribution licensee of such breakdown or unfitness, take
a reduced supply of power as may be necessary and feasible. In such a contingency he shall not
be liable to pay the charges in accordance with the agreement, but he shall pay minimum
monthly charges, demand charges where such charges are payable on the basis of the maximum
demand recorded in the demand meter under modified condition and energy charges on the
basis of actual energy consumed. The aforesaid period of reduced supply shall not be more than
24 (twenty-four) months. If it exceeds 24 ( twenty-four) months a fresh agreement is required
with the adjustment of security deposits only.

CHAPTER 10

GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

177. Construction, installation, protection, operation and maintenance of electric supply lines
and apparatus.- (1) All electric supply lines and apparatus shall be of sufficient ratings for
power, insulation and estimated fault current and of sufficient mechanical strength, for the duty
which they may be required to perform under the environmental conditions of installation, and
shall be constructed, installed, protected, worked and maintained in such a manner as to ensure
safety of human beings, animals and property.
(2) Relevant code of practice of the BSTI including National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) may
be followed to carry out the purposes of this Code and in the event of any inconsistency, the
provisions of this Code shall prevail.
(3) The material and apparatus used shall conform to the relevant specifications of the BSTI
where such specifications have already been laid down.

178. Service lines and apparatus on consumer’s premises.- (1) The distribution licensee shall
ensure that all electric supply lines, wires, fittings and apparatus belonging to it or under its
control, which are on a consumer’s premises, are in a safe condition and in all respects fit for
supplying energy and the distribution licensee shall take due precautions to avoid danger arising
on such premises from such supply lines, wires, fittings and apparatus.
(2) Service-lines laced by the distribution licensee on the premises of a consumer which are
underground or which are accessible shall be so insulated and protected by the distribution
licensee as to be secured under all ordinary conditions against electrical, mechanical, chemical or
other injury to the insulation.
(3) The consumer shall, as far as circumstances permit, take precautions for the safe custody of
the equipment on his premises belonging to the distribution licensee.
(4) The consumer shall also ensure that the installation under his control is maintained in a safe
condition.

179. Cut-out on consumer’s premises.- (1) The distribution licensee shall ensure that a suitable
cut-out or circuit breaker or tripping device, in lieu thereof, is placed by the consumer at the

69
 entrance of his premises after the metering system in each conductor of every service-line other
than an earthed or earthed neutral conductor or the earthed external conductor of a concentric
cable within a consumer’s premises, in an accessible position. Such cut-out shall be contained
within an adequately enclosed fireproof receptacle.
(2) Where more than one consumer is supplied through a common service-line, each such
consumer shall be provided with an independent cut-out or circuit breaker or tripping devise at
the point of junction after the metering system to the common service.
(3) Every electric supply line other than the earth or earthed neutral conductor of any system or
the earthed external conductor of a concentric cable shall be protected by a suitable cut-out by
its owner.

180. Identification of earthed and earthed neutral conductors and position of switches
and cut-outs therein.- Where the conductors include an earthed conductor of a two-wire system
or an earthed neutral conductor of a multi-wire system or a conductor which is to be connected
thereto, the following conditions shall be complied with, namely:-
(a) an indication of a permanent nature shall be provided by the owner of the
earthed or earthed neutral conductor, or the conductor which is to be connected
thereto, to enable such conductor to be distinguished from any live conductor;
such indication shall be provided-
(i) where the earthed or earthed neutral conductor is the property of the distribution licensee, at or near
the point of commencement of supply; (ii) where a conductor forming part of a consumer’s system is to be connected
to the distribution licensee’s earthed or earthed neutral conductor, at the point where such connection is to be
made;
(iii) in all other cases, at a point corresponding to the point of commencement of
supply or at such other points as may be approved by the authorised officer.
(b) no cut-out, link or switch other than a linked switch arranged to operate
simultaneously on the earthed or earthed neutral conductor and live conductors
shall be inserted or remain inserted in any earthed or earthed neutral conductor of
a two wire-system or in any earthed or earthed neutral conductor of a multi-wire
system or in any conductor connected thereto with the following exceptions,
namely:-
(i) a link for testing purposes; or
(ii) a switch for use in controlling a generator or transformer.

181. Earthed terminal on consumer’s premises.- (1) The distribution licensee shall
provide and maintain on the consumer’s premises for the consumer’s use, a suitable earthed
terminal in an accessible position at or near the point of commencement of supply as defined in
this Code:
Provided that in the case of medium, high or extra-high voltage installation the consumer shall,
in addition to the aforementioned earthling arrangement, provide his own earthling system with
an independent electrode:
Provided further that the distribution licensee may not provide any earthed terminal in the case of
installations already connected to its system on or before the date to be specified by the
Commission in this behalf if it is satisfied that the consumer’s earthling arrangement is efficient.
(2) The consumer shall take all reasonable precautions to prevent mechanical damage to the
earthed terminal and its lead belonging to the distribution licensee.

70
(3) The distribution licensee may recover from the consumer the cost of installation on the basis
of schedule of charges notified in advance and where such schedule of charges is not notified,
the following procedure of estimate shall apply, namely:-
(a) cost of additional material used on the alteration giving due credit for the
depreciated cost of the material which would be available from the existing line;
(b) wages of labour employed in affecting the alteration;
(c) supervision charges to the extent of 15 per cent of the wages mentioned in
clause (b); and
(d) any applicable/statutory charges incurred by the distribution licensee in respect
of such alterations.

182. Accessibility of bare conductors.- Where bare conductors are used in a building,
the owner of such conductors shall –
(a) ensure that they are inaccessible;
(b) provide in readily accessible position switches for rendering them dead
whenever necessary; and
(c) take such other safety measures as are considered necessary by the
authorized officer.

183. Danger notices.- The owner of every medium, high and extra-high voltage
installation shall affix permanently in a visible position a danger notice in Bengali and/or
English with a sign of skull and bones and/or thunder sign on -
(a) every motor, generator, transformer and other electrical plant and equipment
together with apparatus used for controlling or regulating the same; (b) all
supports of high and extra-high voltage overhead lines which can be easily
climbed-upon without the aid of ladder or special appliances; Explanation.-
Rails, tubular poles, wooden supports, reinforced cement concrete poles
without steps, I-sections and channels, shall be deemed as supports which
cannot be easily climbed upon for the purposes of this clause; (c) luminous tube
sign requiring high voltage supply, X-ray and similar high frequency
installations:
Provided that where it is not possible to affix such notices or any generator, motor, transformer
or other apparatus, they shall be affixed as near as possible thereto, or the word ‘‘danger” and
the voltage of apparatus concerned shall be permanently painted on it: Provided further that
where the generator, motor, transformer or other apparatus is within an enclosure one notice
affixed to the said enclosure shall be sufficient for the purposes of this Code.

184. Handling of electric supply lines and apparatus.- (1) Before any conductor or
apparatus is handled adequate precaution:-s shall be taken, by earthling or other suitable
means, to discharge electrically such conductor or apparatus, and any adjacent conductor or
apparatus if there is danger there from, and to prevent any conductor or apparatus from being
accidentally or inadvertently electrically charged when persons are working thereon.
(2) Every person who is working on an electric supply line or apparatus or both shall be
provided with tools and devices such as gloves, rubber shoes, safety belts, ladders, earthing
devices, helmets, line testers, hand lines and the like for protecting him from mechanical and

71
electrical injury. Such tools and devices shall always be maintained in sound and efficient
working conditions.
(3) No person shall work on any live electric supply line or apparatus and no person shall assist
such person on such work, unless he is authorized in that behalf, and takes the safety measures
indicated in this Code.
(4) Every telecommunication line on supports carrying a high or extra-high voltage line shall,
for the purpose of working thereon, be deemed to be a high voltage line.

185. Supply to vehicles, cranes, etc.- Every person owning a vehicle, travelling crane,
or the like to which energy is supplied from an external source shall ensure that it is efficiently
controlled by a suitable switch enabling all voltage to be cut off in one operation and, where
such vehicle, travelling crane or the like runs on metal rails, the owner shall ensure that the rails
are electrically continuous and earthed.

186. Cables for portable or transportable apparatus.- (1) Flexible cables shall not be
used for portable or transportable motors, generators, transformer rectifiers, electric drills,
electric sprayers, welding sets or any other portable or transportable apparatus unless they are
heavily insulated and adequately protected from mechanical injury.
(2) Where the protection is by means of metallic covering the covering shall be in metallic
connection with the frame of any such apparatus and earth.
(3) The cables shall be three core type and four core type for portable and transportable
apparatus working on single phase and three phase supply respectively and the wire meant to be
used for ground connection shall be easily identifiable.

187. Cables protected by bituminous materials.- (1) Where the distribution licensee or the
owner has brought into use an electric supply line (other than an overhead line) which is not
completely enclosed in a continuous metallic covering connected with earth and is insulated or
protected in situ by composition or material of a bituminous character,-
(a) any pipe, conduit, or the like into which such electric supply line may have been
drawn or placed shall be effectively sealed at its point of entry into any street
box so as to prevent any flow of gas to or from the street box; and
(b) such electric supply line shall be periodically inspected and tested where
accessible, and the result of each such inspection and test shall be duly recorded
by the distribution licensee or the owner.
(2) It shall not be permissible for the distribution licensee or the owner after commencement of
this Code, to bring into use any further electric supply line as aforesaid which is insulated or
protected in situ by any composition or material known to be liable to produce noxious or
explosive gases on excessive heating.

188. Street boxes.- (1) Street boxes shall not contain gas pipes, and precautions shall be taken to
prevent, as far as reasonably possible, any influx of water or gas.
(2) Where electric supply lines forming part of different systems pass through the same street
box, they shall be readily distinguishable from one another and all electric supply lines at high
or extra-high voltage in street boxes shall be adequately supported and protected so as to
prevent risk of damage to or danger from adjacent electric supply lines.

72
(3) All street boxes shall be regularly inspected for the purpose of detecting the presence of gas
and if any influx or accumulation is discovered, the owner shall give immediate notice to any
authority or company who have gas mains in the neighborhood of the street box and in cases
where a street box is large enough to admit the entrance of a person after the electric supply
lines or apparatus therein have been placed in position, ample provision shall be made-
(a) to ensure that any gas which may by accident have obtained access to the
box shall escape before a person is allowed to enter; and (b) for the prevention
of danger from sparking.
(4) The owners of all street boxes or pillars containing circuits or apparatus shall ensure that
their covers and doors are so provided that they can be opened only by means of a key or a
special appliance.

189. Distinction of different circuits.- The owner of every generating station,

substation, junction-box or pillar in which there are any circuits or apparatus, whether intended
for operation at different voltages or at the same voltage, shall ensure by means of indication of
a permanent nature that the respective circuits are readily distinguishable from one another.

190. Distinction of the installations having more than one feed.- The owner of the
every installation including substation, double pole structure, four pole structure or any other
structure having more than one feed, shall ensure by means of indication of a permanent nature,
that the installation is readily distinguishable from other installations.

191. Accidental charge.- (1)The owners of all circuits and apparatus shall so arrange
them that there shall be no danger of any part thereof becoming accidentally charged to any
voltage beyond the limits of voltage for which they are intended.
(2) Where A.C and D.C circuits are installed on the same support they shall be so arranged and
protected that they shall not come into contract with each other when live.

192. Provisions applicable to protective equipment.- (1) Fire buckets filled with clean dry sand
and ready for immediate use for extinguishing fires, in addition to fire extinguishers suitable for
dealing with electric fires, shall be conspicuously marked and kept in all generating stations,
enclosed substations and switch stations in convenient situation. The fire extinguishers shall be
tested for satisfactory operation at least once a year and record of such tests shall be maintained.
(2) First-aid boxes or cupboards, conspicuously marked and equipped with adequate contents
shall be provided and maintained in every generating station, enclosed substation and enclosed
switch station so as to be readily accessible during all working hours. All such boxes and
cupboards shall, except in the case of unattended substations and switch stations, be kept in
charge of responsible persons who are trained in first aid treatment and one of such person shall
be available during working hours.
(3) Two or more gas masks shall be provided conspicuously and installed and maintained in
accessible places in every generating station with capacity of 5MW and above and enclosed
substation with transformation capacity of 5 MVA and above for use in the event of fire or
smoke:
Provided that where more than one generator with capacity of 5 MW and above is installed in a
power station, each generator shall be provided with at least two separate gas masks in
accessible and conspicuous position:

73
Provided further that adequate number of gas masks shall be provided by the owner of every
generating station and enclosed substation with capacity of less than 5 MW and 5 MVA
respectively, if so desired by the Commission.

193. Instructions for restoration of persons suffering from electric shock.- (1) Instructions, in
Bengali and/or English, for the restoration of persons suffering from electric shock, shall be
affixed by the owner in a visible place in every generating station, enclosed substation, enclosed
switch-station and in every factory as defined in the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006 (Act No. 42
of 2006) in which electricity is used and in such other premises where electricity is used as an
authorized officer may, by notice in writing served on the owner, direct.
(2) The owner of every generating station, enclosed substation, enclosed switch-station and
every factory or other premises to which this Code applies, shall ensure that all authorized
persons employed by him are acquainted with and are competent to apply the instructions
referred to in sub regulation (1) above.
(3) In every manned medium voltage or high voltage generating station, substation or switch
station, an artificial respirator shall be provided and kept in good working condition.

194. Precautions to be adopted by consumers, owners, occupiers, electrical contractors,

electrical workmen and licensees.- (1) No electrical installation work, including additions,
alterations, repairs and adjustments to existing installations, except such replacement of lamps,
fans, fuses, switches, low voltage domestic appliances and fittings as in no way alters its
capacity or character, shall be undertaken except by an electrical contractor licensed in this
behalf by the appropriate authority and under the direct supervision of a person holding a
recognized certificate of competency:
Provided that in the case of works executed for any public authority, electricity utility, industry,
other organizations or in the case of installations in mines, oil fields and railways, by the
departmental people designated/appointed for such works, the aforesaid requirements may be
waived.
(2) No electrical installation work which has been carried out in contravention of sub-
regulation (1) above shall either be energized or connected to the works of any distribution
licensee.

195. Periodical inspection and testing of installation.- (1) Where an installation is already
connected to the supply system of the distribution licensee, every such installation shall be
periodically inspected and tested at intervals not exceeding three years by a competent person of
the organization or a person holding a recognized certificate of competency.
(2) The periodical inspection and testing of medium voltage and high voltage installations
belonging to distribution licensee, shall also be carried out at intervals not exceeding three
years.
(3) Where the distribution licensee is directed by the Commission to inspect and test the
installation, the distribution licensee shall report on the condition of the installation to the
consumer concerned and shall submit a copy of such report to the Commission.
(4) The fees for such inspection and test shall be determined by the Commission in the case of
each class of consumers and shall be payable by the consumer in advance.
(5) In the event of the failure of any consumer to pay the fees on or before the date specified in
the fee-notice, supply to the installation of such consumer shall be liable to be disconnected.
Such disconnection, however, shall not be made by the distribution licensee without giving to

74
the consumer seven clear days notice in writing of its intention to do so. (6) In the event of the
failure of the owner of any installation to rectify the defects in his installation pointed out by the
distribution licensee or by any authorized officer, such installation shall be liable to be
disconnected after serving the owner of such installation with a notice:
Provided that the installation shall not be disconnected in case an appeal is made and the appellate
authority has stayed the order of disconnection:
Provided further that the time indicated in the notice shall not be less than 48 hours in any case:
Provided further that nothing contained in this regulation shall have any effect on the application
of the provisions for leakage on consumer’s premises.
(7) Notwithstanding the provisions of this regulation, the consumer shall at all times be solely responsible
for the maintenance of his installation in such condition as to be free from danger.

CHAPTER 11

GENERAL CONDITIONS RELATING TO

SUPPLY AND USE OF ENERGY

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196. Testing of consumer’s installation.- (1) Upon receipt of an application for a new or
additional supply of energy and before connecting the supply or reconnecting the same after a
period of six months, the distribution licensee shall inspect and test the applicant’s installation.
The distribution licensee shall maintain a record of test results obtained at each supply point to
a consumer.
(2) If as a result of such inspection and test., the distribution licensee is satisfied that the
installation is likely to constitute danger, it shall serve on the applicant a notice in writing
requiring him to make such modifications as are necessary to render the installation safe. The
distribution licensee may refuse to connect or reconnect the supply until the required
modifications have been completed and it has been notified by the applicant.

197. Installation and testing of generating units.- Where any consumer or occupier
installs a generating plant, he shall give a thirty days’ notice of his intention to commission the
plant to the distribution licensee as well as to the Commission:
Provided that no consumer or occupier shall commission his generating plant without obtaining license or
waiver, as the case may be, from the Commission.

198. Precautions against leakage before connection.- (1) The distribution licensee shall
not connect with its works the installation or apparatus on the premises of any applicant for
supply unless it is reasonably satisfied that the connection shall not at the time of making the
connection cause a leakage from that installation or apparatus of a magnitude detrimental to
safety. Compliance with this provision shall be checked by measuring the installation resistance
as provided below, namely:-
(a) all the electrical equipments shall have the “IR” values as stipulated in the
relevant Standards;
(b) at a pressure of 500 V DC applied between each live conductor and earth for a
period of one minute the insulation resistance of low voltage equipments shall be
at least 1 Mega ohm or as specified in the relevant Standard;
(c) at a pressure of 2.5 kV DC applied between each live conductor and earth for a
period of one minute, the insulation resistance of medium voltage equipments
shall be at least 5 Mega ohm or as specified in the relevant Standard;
(d) when the supply is derived from three wires (AC or DC) or a poly-phase system,
the neutral pole of which is connected to earth either directly or through added
resistance the working voltage shall be deemed to be that which is maintained
between the outer or phase conductor and the neutral.
(2) If the distribution licensee declines to make a connection under the provisions of
subregulation (1) above, it shall serve upon the applicant a notice in writing stating its reason
for so declining.

199. Leakage on consumer’s premises.- (1) If the distribution licensee has reason to believe that
there is in the system of a consumer leakage which is likely to affect injuriously the use of
energy by the distribution licensee or by other persons, or which is likely to cause danger, the
distribution licensee may give the consumer reasonable notice in writing that it desires to
inspect and test the consumer’s installation.
(2) If on such notice being given-
(a) the consumer does not give all reasonable facilities for inspection and testing of
his installation; or

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(b) when an insulation resistance of the consumer’s insulation is so low as to
prevent safe use of energy, the distribution licensee shall discontinue the
supply of energy to the installation but only after giving to the consumer 48
(forty-eight) hours notice in writing of disconnection of supply and shall not
recommence the supply until the distribution licensee is satisfied that the cause of the leakage
has been removed.

200. Supply and use of energy.- (1) The energy shall not be supplied, transformed, converted or
used or continued to be supplied, transformed, converted or used unless the provisions set out
below are observed, namely:-
(a) the following controls of requisite capacity to carry and break the current are
placed after the point of commencement of supply as defined in regulation 209 so
as to be readily accessible and capable of being easily operated to completely
isolate the supply to the installation, such equipment being in addition to any
equipment installed for controlling individual circuits or apparatus, namely:-
(i) a linked switch with fuse(s) or a circuit breaker by low voltage consumers;
(ii) a linked switch with fuse(s) or a circuit breaker by MV and HV
consumers having aggregate installed transformer/apparatus capacity
up to 500 kVA to be supplied at voltage upto 11 kV;
(iii) a circuit breaker by MV and HV consumers having an aggregate
installed transformer/apparatus capacity above 500 kVA and supplied
at 11 kV and above 5000 kVA supplied at higher voltages (above 11
kV and not exceeding 33 kV); (iv) a circuit breaker by EHV consumer:
provided that where the point of commencement of supply and the consumer
apparatus are near each other, one linked switch with fuse(s) or circuit breaker near
the point of commencement of supply as required by this clause shall be considered
sufficient.
(b) in case of every transformer the following shall be provided, namely:-
(i) on the primary side of all transformers a linked switch with fuse (s)
or circuit breaker of adequate capacity shall be installed:
provided that the linked switch on the primary side of the transformer may be of
such capacity as to carry the full load current and to break only the magnetizing current
of the transformer:

provided further that for all transformers-

(A) having a capacity of 5000 kVA and above and installed before the
enforcement of this Code; and
( B) having a capacity of 500 kVA and above and installed before the enforcement
of this Code, a circuit breaker shall be provided:
provided further that the provision of linked switch on the primary side of the
transformer shall not apply to the unit auxiliary transformer of the generator;
(ii) in respect of all transformers installed on or after the enforcement of this
Code, on the secondary side of all transformers transforming HV to
EHV, MV or LV, a circuit breaker of adequate rating shall be installed: provided that
for distribution licensees’ transformers of capacity up to 500 kVA, a linked switch with fuse
or circuit breaker of adequate rating shall be installed on secondary side;

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 (c) except in the case of composite control gear designed as a unit distinct circuit is
protected against excess energy by means of suitable cut-out or a circuit breaker of
adequate breaking capacity suitably located and so constructed as to prevent danger
from overheating, arcing or scattering of hot metal when it comes into operation and
to permit for ready renewal of the fusible metal of the cut-out without danger;
(d) the supply of energy of each motor or a group of motors or other apparatus meant
for operating one particular machine is controlled by a suitable linked switch or a
circuit breaker or an emergency tripping device with manual reset of requisite
capacity placed in such a position as to be adjacent to the motor or a group of motors
or other apparatus readily accessible to and easily operated by the person in-charge
and so connected in the circuit that by its means all supply of energy can be cut off
from the motor or group of motors or apparatus from any regulating switch,
resistance of other device associated therewith;
(e) all insulating materials are chosen with special regard to the circumstances of its
proposed use and their mechanical strength is sufficient for its purpose and so far as is
practicable of such a character or so protected as to maintain adequately its insulating
property under all working conditions in respect of temperature and moisture; and
(f) adequate precautions shall be taken to ensure that no live parts are so exposed as to
cause danger.
(2) Where energy is being supplied, transformed, converted or used the consumer, distribution
licensee or the owner of the concerned installation shall be responsible for the continuous
observance of the provisions of sub-regulation (1) above in respect of his or its installations.
(3) Every consumer shall use all reasonable means to ensure that where energy is supplied by a
distribution licensee no person other than the distribution licensee shall interfere with service
lines and apparatus which placed them on the premises of the consumer.

201. Additional provisions for supply in multi-storied (six or more storied) buildings.- (1)
Before making an application for recommencement of supply after an installation has been
disconnected for a period of six months or more, the owner/occupier of a multi-storied (six or
more storied) building shall give not less than 30 (thirty) days notice in writing to the
distribution licensee together with particulars. The supply of energy shall not be recommenced
within this period without the approval or otherwise in writing of the distribution licensee.
(2) The distribution licensee/owner of the installation shall provide at the point of
commencement of supply a suitable isolating device with cut-out or breaker to operate on all
phases except neutral in the 3 phase 4 wire circuit and fixed in a conspicuous position at not
more than 2.75 meters above the ground so as to completely isolate the supply to the building in
case of emergency.
(3) The owner/occupier of a multi-storied building shall ensure that electrical
installations/works inside the building are carried out and maintained in such a manner as to
prevent danger due to shock and fire hazards, and the installation is carried out in accordance
with the relevant codes of practices.
(4) No other service pipes shall be taken along the ducts provided for laying power cables. All
ducts for power cables and other services shall be provided with fire-barrier at each floor
crossing.

202. Provisions applicable to medium, high or extra-high voltage installations.- (1) The following
provisions shall be observed where energy at medium, high or extra-high voltage is supplied,
converted, transformed or used, namely:-

78
(a) all conductors (other than those of overhead lines) shall be completely enclosed in
mechanically strong metal casing or metallic covering which is electrically and
mechanically continuous and adequately protected against mechanical damage unless the
said conductors are accessible only to an authorized person or are installed and protected so
as to prevent danger:
provided that non-metallic conduits conforming to the relevant BSTI Standard Specifications
may be used for low voltage installations, subject to such conditions as the distribution
licensee may think fit to impose;
(b) all metal works, enclosing, supporting or associated with the installation, other than that
designed to serve as a conductor shall be connected with an earthling system as per
Standard in this regard and also in accordance with this Code;
(c) every switchboard shall comply with the following provisions, namely:- (i) a clear space
of not less than 1 meter in width shall be provided in front of
the switchboard;
(ii) If there are any attachments or bare connections at the back of the
switchboard, the space (if any) behind the switchboard shall be either less than
20 centimeters or more than 75 centimeters in width, measured from the
farthest outstanding part of any attachment or conductor;
(iii) If the space behind the switchboard exceeds 75 centimeters in width, there
shall be a passage-way from either end of the switchboard, clear to a height of 1.8
meters.
(d) in case of installations provided in premises where inflammable materials including gases
and/or chemicals are produced, handled or stored, the electrical installations, equipment
and apparatus shall comply with the requirements of flame proof, dust tight, totally
enclosed or any other suitable type of electrical fittings. Appropriate International Standard
may be followed.
(2) Where an application has been made to a distribution licensee for supply of energy to any
installation, the distribution licensee shall not commence the supply or, where the supply has
been discontinued for a period of six months or more, recommence the supply unless the
distribution licensee is satisfied that the consumer has complied with, in all respects the
conditions of supply set out in this Code.
(3) Where a distribution licensee proposes to supply or use energy at a medium voltage the
distribution licensee shall, before connecting the supply, ensure that appropriate license has
been obtained from competent authority.
(4) If, at any time after connecting the supply, the distribution licensee is satisfied that any
provision of this Code is not being observed, it shall give notice of the same in writing to the
consumer, specifying how the provision has not been observed and to rectify such defects in a
reasonable time and if the consumer fails to rectify such defects as pointed out, the distribution
licensee may discontinue the supply after giving the consumer a reasonable opportunity of
being heard and recording reasons in writing. The supply shall be discontinued only on written
orders of an officer duly authorized by the distribution licensee in this behalf. The supply shall
be restored with all possible speed after such defects are rectified by the consumer to the
satisfaction of the distribution licensee.

203. Appeal to Commission in regard to defects.- (1) If any applicant for a supply or a
consumer is dissatisfied with the action of the distribution licensee in declining to commence, to
continue or to recommence the supply of energy to his premises on the grounds that the

79
installation is defective or is likely to constitute danger, he may appeal to the Commission to
inspect the installation and if the Commission or any officer duly authorized by it in this behalf
is satisfied that the installation is free from the defect or danger complained of, the distribution
licensee shall not be entitled to refuse supply to the consumer on the grounds aforesaid, and
shall, within 24 (twenty-four) hours after the receipt of such intimation from the Commission,
commence, continue or recommence the supply of energy.
(2) Any inspection for which appeal has been made under sub-regulation (1) shall be carried out
within 15 (fifteen) days after the receipt of such appeal.

204. Cost of inspection and test of consumer’s installation.- (1) The cost of the first inspection
and test of consumer’s installation carried out in pursuance of the provisions of regulation 196
(1) above shall be borne by the distribution licensee and the cost of every subsequent inspection
and test shall be borne by the consumer, unless in the appeal under regulation 203 (1) the
Commission directs otherwise.
(2) The cost of any inspection and test made by the Commission or any officer duly authorized
by it in this behalf, at the request of the consumer or other interested party, shall be borne by the
consumer or such other interested party, unless the Commission directs otherwise.
(3) The cost of each and every such inspection and test by whomsoever borne shall be
calculated in accordance with the prevailing remuneration scale.

205. Declared voltage of supply to consumer.- Except with the written consent of the
consumer or with the previous sanction of the Commission, a distribution licensee shall not
permit the voltage at the point of commencement of supply to vary from the declared voltage,-
(a) in the case of low voltage, by more than 5 per cent: or
(b) in the case of medium voltage, by more than 5 per cent on the higher side or by more
than 8 per cent on the lower side: or
(c) in the case of high voltage, by more than 5 per cent on the higher side or by more than
10 per cent on the lower side.

206. Declared frequency of supply to consumer.- The distribution licensee shall not
permit the frequency of an alternating current supply to vary from the declared frequency by
more than 2 percent.

207. Sealing of meters and cut-outs.- (1) A distribution licensee may affix one or more
seals to any cut-out and to any meter, maximum demand indicator or other apparatus placed
upon a consumer’s premises in accordance with the provisions of this Code, and no person
other than the said distribution licensee shall break any such seal.
(2) The consumer shall use all reasonable means in his power to ensure that no such seal is broken
otherwise than by the distribution licensee.

208. Meters, maximum demand indicators and other apparatus on consumer’s

premises.- (1) Any meter or maximum demand indicator or other apparatus placed upon a Formatted: Highlight consumer’s
premises shall be of appropriate capacity and shall be deemed to be correct if its limits of error are within the limits
specified by the Commission, and in the absence thereof, by the BSTI or in the relevant international Standard and
where no such specification exists, the limits of error do not exceed 2 per cent for low voltage and 1 per cent for

80
medium and high voltage above or below absolute accuracy at all loads in excess of one tenth of full load and up to full
load.
(2) No meter shall register at no load.
(3) Every distribution licensee shall provide and maintain in proper condition such suitable apparatus for the
examination, testing and regulation of meters used or intended to be used in connection with the supply of energy:
Provided that a distribution licensee may with the approval of the Commission and shall, if
required by the Commission, enter into a joint arrangement with any other distribution licensee
for the purpose aforesaid.
(4) Every distribution licensee shall examine, test and regulate all meters, maximum demand Formatted: Highlight indicators
and other apparatus for ascertaining the amount of energy supplied before their first installation at the consumer’s
premises and at such other intervals as may be directed by the Commission.
(5) Every distribution licensee shall maintain a register of meters showing the date of the last Formatted: Highlight test, the
error recorded at the time of the test, the limit of accuracy after adjustment and final test, the date of installation,
withdrawal, reinstallation, etc., for the examination of the Commission or its authorized representative.
(6) Where the distribution licensee has failed to examine, test and regulate the meters and keep records thereof as
aforesaid, the Commission may cause such meters to be tested and sealed at the cost of the owner of the meters in
case these are found defective.

209. Point of commencement of supply.- The point of commencement of supply of

energy to a consumer shall be deemed to be the point at the incoming terminal of the cut-outs
installed by the consumer after the meter.

210. Precautions against failure of supply, notice of failures.- (1) The layout of the
electric supply lines of the distribution Licensee for the supply of energy throughout its area of
supply shall under normal working conditions be sectionalized and so arranged, and provided
with cut-outs or circuit-breakers so located, as to restrict within reasonable limits the extent of
the portion of the system affected by any failure of supply.
(2) The distribution licensee shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid any accidental
interruptions of supply, and also to avoid danger to the public or to any employee or authorized
person when engaged on any operation during and in connection with the installation,
extension, replacement, repair and maintenance of any works.
(3) The distribution licensee shall send to the Commission notice of failure of supply of such
kind as the Commission may from time, to time require to be notified, and such notice shall be
sent by the earliest practicable mode of delivery after the failure occurs or after the failure
becomes known to the distribution licensee.
(4) For the purpose of testing or for any other purpose connected with the efficient working of
the undertaking, the supply of energy may be discontinued by the distribution licensee for such
period as may be necessary, subject (except in cases of emergency) to not less than 24 hours
notice being given by the distribution licensee to all consumers likely to be affected by such
discontinuance:
Provided that the supply of energy shall be discontinued during such hours as are likely to
interfere the least with the use of energy by consumers and the energy shall not be discontinued
if the Commission so directs.

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 CHAPTER 12

ELECTRIC SUPPLY LINES, SYSTEMS

AND APPARATUS FOR LOW VOLTAGE

211. Test for resistance of insulation.- (1) Where any electric supply line for use at low or
medium voltage has been disconnected from a system for the purpose of addition, alteration or
repair, such electric supply line shall not be reconnected to the system until the distribution
licensee or the owner has carried out the test prescribed in Chapter 11.
(2) The aforesaid provision shall not apply to overhead lines, except overhead insulated cables.

212. Connection with earth.- (1) The following provisions shall apply to the connection with
earth of systems at low voltage in cases where the voltage normally exceeds 125 volts and of
systems at low voltage, namely:-
(a) neutral conductor of a 3 phase, 4 wire system and the middle conductor of a 2 phase, 3-
wire system shall be earthed by not less than two separate and distinct connections
with a minimum of two different earth electrodes or such large number as may be
necessary to bring the earth resistance to a satisfactory value both at the generating
station and at the substation; the earth electrodes so provided, may be inter-connected
to reduce earth resistance; it may also be earthed at one or more points along the
distribution system or service line in addition to any connection with earth which may
be at the consumer’s premises;
(b) in the case of a system comprising electric supply lines having concentric cables, the
external conductor of such cables shall be earthed by two separate and distinct
connections with earth;
(c) the connection with earth may include a link by means of which the connection may be
temporarily interrupted for the purpose of testing or for locating a fault;
(d) (i) in a direct current three wire system the middle conductor shall be earthed at the
generating station only, and the current from the middle conductor to earth shall be
continuously recorded by means of a recording ammeter, and if any time the current
exceeds one-thousandth part of the maximum supply immediate steps shall be taken to
improve the insulation of the system;
(ii) where the middle conductor is earthed by means of a circuit-breaker with a
resistance connected in parallel, the resistance shall not exceed 10 Ohms and
on the opening of the circuit-breaker, immediate steps shall be taken to
improve the insulation of the system, and the circuit-breaker shall be
reclosed as soon as possible;

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 (iii) the resistance shall be used only as a protection for the ammeter in case of
earths on the system and until such earths are removed; immediate steps shall
be taken to locate and remove the earth;
(e) in the case of an alternating current system, there shall not be inserted in the
connection with earth any impedance (other than that required solely for the operation
of switchgear or instruments), cut-out or circuit-breaker, and the result of any test made
to ascertain whether the current (if any) passing through the connection with earth is
normal, shall be duly recorded by the distribution licensee;
(f) no person shall make connection with earth by the aid of, nor shall he keep it in contact
with, any water main not belonging to him except with the consent of the owner
thereof and of the distribution licensee;
(g) alternating current systems which are connected with earth as aforesaid may be
electrically interconnected:
provided that each connection with earth is bonded to the metal sheathing and
metallic armoring (if any) of the electric supply lines concerned.
(2) The frame of every generator, stationary motor, portable motor, and the metallic parts (not
intended as conductors) of all transformers and any other apparatus used for regulating or
controlling energy and all low voltage energy consuming apparatus shall be earthed by the
owner by two separate and distinct connections with earth.
(3) All metal casings or metallic coverings containing or protecting any electric supply line or
apparatus shall be connected with earth and shall be so joined and connected across all
junction boxes and other openings as to make good mechanical and electrical connection
throughout their whole length:
Provided that where the supply is at low voltage, this provision shall not apply to wall tubes or
to brackets, switches, ceiling fans or other fittings (other than portable hand lamps and portable
and transportable apparatus) unless provided with earth terminal and to apparatus/appliances:
Provided further that where the supply is at low voltage and where the installations are either
new or renovated all plug sockets shall be of the three-pin type, and the third pin shall be
permanently and efficiently earthed.
(4) All earthing system shall-
(a) consist of equipotential bonding conductors capable of carrying the prospective
earth fault current and a group of pipe/rod/plate electrodes for dissipating the current to the general
mass of earth without exceeding the allowable temperature limits as per relevant Standards in
order to maintain all non-current carrying metal works reasonably at earth potential and to avoid
dangerous contact potentials being developed on such metal works;
(b) limit earth resistance sufficiently low to permit adequate fault current for the
operation of protective devices in time and to reduce neutral shifting;
(c) be mechanically strong, withstand corrosion and retain electrical continuity
during the life of the installation; all earthing systems shall be tested to ensure
efficient earthing, before the electric supply lines or apparatus are energized.
(5) All earthing systems belonging to the distribution licensee shall, in addition, be tested for
resistance on a dry day during the dry season not less than once every two years.
(6) A record of every earth test made and the result thereof shall be kept by the distribution
licensee for a period of not less than two years after the day of testing and shall be available
for the Commission’s inspection.

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213. Earth leakage protective device.- The supply of energy to every electrical
installation other than low voltage installation below 8 kW, shall be controlled by an earth
leakage protective device so as to disconnect the supply instantly on the occurrence of earth
fault or leakage of current:
Provided that the above provision shall not apply to overhead supply lines having protective
devices which are effectively bonded to the neutral of supply transformers and conforming to
this Code.

214. Poly phase systems at low voltage.- Where a poly phase voltage supply system is
employed, the voltage between earth and any conductor forming part of the same system shall
not, under normal conditions, exceed low voltage.

CHAPTER 13

84
 ELECTRIC SUPPLY LINES, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS
FOR MEDIUM AND HIGH VOLTAGES

215. Approval of installation.- (1) Before supply is commenced or recommenced to

any person at medium or high voltage after his installation has been disconnected for one year
or more, the distribution licensee shall ensure that the medium or high voltage electric supply
lines or apparatus belonging to it are placed in position, properly joined and duly completed and
examined. The supply of energy shall not be commenced by the distribution licensee unless and
until the provisions laid down in this Chapter have been complied with and the approval in
writing of the competent authority has been obtained:
Provided that the distribution licensee may energize the aforesaid electric supply lines or apparatus for
the purpose of tests described in regulation 218 below.
(2) In case of a new connection or a valid connection is kept disconnected for more than one
year, for whatsoever, necessary approved test to be completed and results have to pass the
minimum mandatory value as per testing recommendation.
(3) The owner of any medium or high voltage installation shall, before making application to
the distribution licensee for approval of his installation or additions thereto, test every medium
or high voltage circuit or additions thereto, other than an overhead line, and satisfy himself that
they withstand the application of the testing voltage set out in regulation 218 (1) below and
shall duly record the results of such tests and forward them to the distribution licensee and to
the competent authority:
Provided that the distribution licensee may direct such owner to carry out such tests as deemed
necessary or, if the distribution licensee thinks fit, accept the manufacturer’s certified tests in
respect of any particular apparatus in place of the tests required by this regulation.
(4) the owner of any medium or high voltage installation who makes any addition or alteration
to his installation shall not connect to the supply his apparatus or electric supply lines
comprising the said alteration or addition unless and until such alteration or addition is
approved in writing by the distribution licensee and/or competent authority.

216. Use of energy at medium and high voltage.- (1) The distribution licensee shall not
commence supply or, where the supply has been discontinued for a period of one year or more,
recommence the supply at medium or high voltage to any consumer unless-
(a) all conductors and apparatus situated on the premises of the consumer are so placed as to be
inaccessible except to an authorized person and all operations in connection with the said
conductors and apparatus are carried out by an authorized person;
(b) the consumer has provided and agreed to maintain a separate building or a locked weather-
proof and fire-proof enclosure of agreed design and location, to which the distribution
licensee shall at all times shall have access for the purpose of housing its apparatus and
metering equipment, or where the provision for a separate building or enclosure is
impracticable, the consumer has segregated the aforesaid apparatus of the distribution
licensee from any other part of his own apparatus:
provided that such segregation shall be by the provision of fire proof walls, if the distribution licensee
considers it to be necessary:

85
 provided further that in the case of an out-door installation consumer shall suitably segregate
the aforesaid apparatus belonging to the distribution licensee from his own to the
satisfaction of the distribution licensee;
(c) all pole type substations are constructed and maintained in accordance with regulation 222 of
this Chapter.
(2) The following provisions shall be observed where energy at medium or high voltage is
supplied, converted, transformed or used, namely:-
(a) (i) clearances as per Standard/ Code shall be provided for electrical apparatus so that
sufficient space is available for easy operation and maintenance without any hazard to
the operating and maintenance personnel working near the equipment and for ensuring
adequate ventilation: provided that the owner of the transformer
installation shall not allow any encroachment below such installations. The distribution
licensee shall direct appropriate law enforcing authorities to remove such
encroachments, if such encroachments pose a danger to the life of the operating
personnel/public person or property;
(ii) the following minimum safety working clearances shall be maintained for the
bare conductors or live parts of any apparatus in outdoor substations, excluding
overhead lines, of medium, high and extra high voltage installations, namely:-

System Voltage Safety Working Clearance

(kV) (Meters)

11 2.6
33 2.8
66 3.1 132 3.7
230 4.3
400 6.4
800 10.3

Notes.- (1) The above values are valid for altitude not exceeding 1000 meters (m.).
A correction factor of 1.25 per cent per 100m. is to be applied for increasing the
clearance for altitudes more than 1000m. and up to 3000m.
(2) The above safety working clearances are based on an insulation height of 2.44m which
is the height of lowest point on the insulator (where it meets the earthed metal) from the
ground.
(3) “Safety Working Clearance” is the minimum clearance to be maintained in air between
the live part of the equipment on one hand and earth or any other piece of equipment or
conductor on which it is necessary to carry out the work, on the other.
(4) The “Highest System Voltage” is defined as the highest rms phase to phase voltage which
occurs under normal operating conditions at any time and at any point of the system. It
excludes voltage transients (such as those due to system switching) and temporary voltage
variations due to abnormal system conditions (such as those due to fault conditions or the
sudden disconnection of large loads);
(b) the windings of motors or other apparatus within reach from any position in which a
person may require to be, shall be suitably protected so as to prevent danger;

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(c) where transformer or transformers are used, suitable provision shall be made, either by
connecting with earth a point of the circuit at the lower voltage or otherwise, to guard
against danger by reason of the said circuit becoming accidentally charged above its
normal voltage by leakage from or contact with the circuit at the higher voltage;
(d) a substation or a switch station with apparatus having more than 2000 liters of oil shall
not be located in the basement where proper oil draining arrangement cannot be
provided;
(e) where a substation or a switch station with apparatus having more than 2000 liters of oil
is installed, whether indoor or outdoor, the following measures shall be taken, namely:-
(i) the baffle walls of adequate fire rating shall be provided between the
apparatus in the following cases, namely:-
(A) single phase banks in the switch-yards of generating stations and
substations;
(B) on the consumer premises;
(C) where adequate clearance between the units is not available;
(iii) provisions shall be made for suitable oil soak pit and where use of more than 9000 liters
of oil in any one oil tank, receptacle or chamber is involved, provision shall be made
for the draining away or removal of any oil which may leak or escape from the tanks
receptacles or chambers containing the same, special precautions shall be taken to
prevent the spread of any fire resulting from the ignition of the oil from any cause and
adequate provision shall be made for extinguishing any fire which may occur, spare oil
shall not be stored in any such substation or switch station;
(iv) all the transformers and switchgears shall be maintained in accordance with standard
maintenance schedule and the authorized person shall keep a record thereof;
(v) notwithstanding anything contained in this Chapter, only dry type of transformers shall
be used for installations inside the residential/commercial buildings onward from the
date of enforcement of this Cod;
(f) (i) without prejudice to the above measures, adequate fire protection arrangement shall
be provided for quenching the fire in the apparatus;
(ii) where it is necessary to locate the substation / switch station in the basement following
measures shall be taken, namely:-
(A) the room shall necessarily be in the first basement at the periphery of the basement;
(B) the entrances to the room shall be provided with fire resisting doors of
adequate fire rating but minimum 2 hours, a curb (sill) of a suitable height
shall be provided at the entrance in order to prevent the flow of oil from a
ruptured transformer into other parts of the basement; direct access to the
transformer room shall be provided from outside;
(C) the transformer shall be protected by an automatic high velocity water spray system
or by carbon dioxide or BCF (Bromochloro- difluromethane) or BTM (Bromo-
trifluromethane) fixed installation system or Nitrogen injection and drain method;
(iii) oil filled transformers installed indoors shall not be on any floor above the ground or
below the first basement;
(g) cable trenches inside the substations and switch stations containing cables shall be filled
with sand, pebbles or similar non-inflammable materials or completely covered with
non-inflammable slabs;

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 (h) unless the conditions are such that all the conductors and apparatus may be made dead at
the same time for the purpose of cleaning or for other work, the said conductors and
apparatus shall be so arranged that these may be made dead in sections, and that work
on any such section may be carried on by an authorized person without danger;
(i) only the persons authorized in this behalf shall carry out the work on live lines and
apparatus.
(3) All HV apparatus shall be protected against lightning as well as against switching over
voltages. The equipment used for protection and switching shall be adequately coordinated
with the protected apparatus to ensure safe operation as well as to maintain the stability of
the inter-connected units of the power system.

217. Additional provisions for use of energy at high and extra-high voltage.- The following
additional provisions shall be observed where energy at high or extra-high voltage is supplied,
converted, transferred or used, namely:-
(1) inter-locks.- suitable inter-locks shall be provided in the following cases, namely:-
(a) isolators and the controlling circuit breakers shall be inter-locked so that the isolators
cannot be operated unless the corresponding breaker is in open position;
(b) isolators and the corresponding earthing switches shall be inter-locked so that no
earthing switch can be closed unless and until the corresponding isolator is in open
position;
(c) where two or more supplies are not intended to be operated in parallel, the respective
circuit breakers or linked switches controlling the supplies shall be inter-locked to
prevent possibility of any inadvertent paralleling or feedback;
(d) when two or more transformers are operated in parallel, the system shall be so arranged
as to trip the secondary breaker of a transformer in case the primary breaker of that
transformer trips;
(e) all gates or doors which give access to live parts of an installation shall be interlocked in
such a way that these cannot be opened unless the live parts are made dead; proper
discharging and earthing of these parts should be ensured before any person comes in
close proximity of such parts;
(f) where two or more generators operate in parallel and neutral switching is adopted, inter-
lock shall be provided to ensure that generator breaker cannot be closed unless one of
the neutrals is connected to the earthing system,
(2) protection.– all systems and circuits shall be so protected as to automatically disconnect the
supply under abnormal conditions; the following protection shall be provided, namely:-
(a) over current protection to disconnect the supply automatically if the rated current of the
equipment, cable or supply line is exceeded for a time which the equipment, cable or
supply line is not designed to withstand;
(b) earth-fault/earth leakage protection to disconnect the supply automatically if the earth
fault current exceeds the limit of current for keeping the contact potential within the
reasonable values;
(c) gas pressure type and winding and oil temperature protection to give alarm and tripping
shall be provided on all transformers of ratings 1000 kVA and above;
(d) transformers of capacity 10 MVA and above shall be protected against incipient faults
by differential protection;

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 (e) all generators with rating of 100 kVA and above shall be protected against earth
fault/leakage, all generators of rating 1000 kVA and above shall be protected against
faults within the generator winding using restricted earth fault protection or differential
protection or by both;
(f) high speed bus bar differential protection along with local breaker back up protection
shall be commissioned and shall always be available at all 230 kV and above voltage
substations and switchyards and generating stations connected with the grid.

218. Testing, operation and maintenance.- (1) Before approval is accorded by the distribution
licensee, the manufacturer’s test certificates shall, if required, be produced for all the routine
tests as required under the relevant Standard.
(2) No new medium or HV apparatus, cable or supply line shall be commissioned unless such
apparatus, cable or supply line are subjected to site tests as per relevant international code of
practice.
(3) No medium or HV apparatus, cable or supply line, which has been kept disconnected for a
period of 6 months or more from the system for alterations or repair, shall be connected to the
system until such apparatus, cable or supply line is subjected to the relevant tests as per
international code of practice.
(4) Additionally, the distribution licensee may require certain additional tests to be carried out
before charging the installations or subsequently.
(5) All apparatus, cables and supply lines shall be maintained in healthy conditions and tests
shall be carried out periodically as per the relevant international codes of practice.
(6) Records of all tests, tripping, maintenance works and repairs of all equipment, cables and
supply lines shall be duly kept in such a way that these records can be compared with earlier
ones.
(7) It shall be the responsibility of the owner of all medium and HV installations to maintain
and operate the installations in a condition free from danger and as recommended by the
manufacturer and/or by the relevant codes of practice and/ or by the distribution licensee.
(8) Failures of transformers and reactors of 20 MVA and higher capacity shall be reported by
the consumers and the distribution licensees, within 48 hours of the occurrence of the failure, to
the Commission. The reasons for failure and measures to be taken to avoid recurrence of failure
shall also be reported to the Commission within one month of the occurrence.

219. Metal sheathed electric supply lines, precautions against leakage.- (1) The following
provisions shall apply to electric supply lines other than overhead lines for use at medium or
high voltage, namely:-
(a) the conductors shall be enclosed in metal sheathing which shall be electrically
continuous and connected with earth, and the conductivity of the metal sheathing
shall be maintained and reasonable precautions taken where necessary to avoid
corrosion of the sheathing:
provided that in the case of thermoplastic insulated and sheathed cables with
metallic armor the metallic wire or tape armor shall be considered as metal
sheathing:
provided further that this clause shall not apply to cable with thermoplastic insulation without any
metallic screen or armor;

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 (a) the resistance of the earth connection with metallic sheath shall be kept low enough
to permit the controlling circuit breaker or cut-out to operate in the event of any
failure of insulation between the metallic sheath and the conductor;
(b) where an electric supply-line as aforesaid has concentric cables and the external
conductor is insulated from an outer metal sheathing and connected with earth, the
external conductor may be regarded as the metal sheathing for the purposes of this
clause provided that the foregoing provisions as to conductivity are complied with.
(2) Nothing of sub-regulation (1) shall preclude the employment in generating stations,
substations and switch-stations (including outdoor substations and outdoor switch stations) of
conductors for use at medium or high voltages which are not enclosed in metal sheathing or
preclude the use of electric supply lines laid before the commencement of this Code.

220. Connection with earth.- (1) All non-current carrying metal parts associated with
medium/HV installation shall be effectively earthed to a grounding system or mat which shall-
(a) limit the touch and step potential to tolerable values;
(b) limit the ground potential rise to tolerable values so as to prevent danger
due to transfer of potential through ground, earth wires, cable sheath, fences,
pipe lines, etc.;
(c) maintain the resistance of the earth connection to such a value as to
make
operation of the protective device effective.
(2) In the case of star-connected system with earthed neutrals or delta connected system with
earthed artificial neutral point-
(a) the neutral point of every generator and transformer shall be earthed by
connecting it to the earthling system as defined in this Code and hereinabove
by not less than two separate and distinct connections:
provided that the neutral point of a generator may be connected to the
earthling system through an impedance to limit the fault current to the earth:
provided further that in the case of multi-machine system, neutral switching
may be resorted to, for limiting the injurious effect of harmonic current
circulation in the system;
(b) in the event of an appreciable harmonic current flowing in the neutral
connection so as to cause interference, with communication circuits, the
generator or transformer neutral, shall be earthed through a suitable impedance;
(c) in case of the delta connected system the neutral point shall be obtained by the
insertion of a grounding transformer and current limiting resistance or
impedance wherever considered necessary at the commencement of such a
system.
(3) Single-phase medium or high voltage systems shall be earthed in a manner approved by the
Commission.
(4) In the case of a system comprising electric supply lines having concentric cables, the external
conductor shall be the one to be connected with earth.
(5) Where a distribution licensee proposes to connect with earth an existing system for use at high
or extra-high voltage which has not hitherto been so connected with earth it shall give not less

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 than fourteen days’ notice in writing together with particulars to the telegraphauthority of the
proposed connection with earth.
(6) (a) Where the earthing lead and earth connection are used only in connection with earthing
guards erected under medium or high voltage overhead lines where they cross a
telecommunication line or a railway line, and where such lines are equipped with earth leakage
relays, the resistance shall not exceed 25 ohms;
(b) Every earthing system belonging to either the distribution licensee or the consumer
shall be tested for its resistance to earth on a dry day during dry season not less than once
a year. Records of such tests shall be maintained and shall be produced, if required
before the Commission.
(7) In so far as the provisions of earth leakage protective device included in this Code are
consistent with these provisions, all connections with earth shall also comply with the
provisions of earth leakage protective device.

221. General conditions as to transformation and control of energy.- (1) Where energy at
medium or high voltage is transformed, converted, regulated or otherwise controlled in
substations or switch-stations (including outdoor substations and outdoor switch-stations) or in
street boxes constructed underground, the following provisions shall have effect, namely:-
(a) substations and switch-stations shall preferably be erected above the ground, but
where necessary, they may be constructed underground; due provisions for
ventilation and drainage shall be made and any space housing switchgear shall not
be used for storage of any materials especially inflammable and combustible materials
or refuse;
(b) outdoor substations except pole type substations and outdoor switch-stations
shall (unless the apparatus is completely enclosed in a metal covering connected with earth,
the said apparatus also being connected with the system by armored cables) be efficiently
protected by fencing not less than 1.8 meters in height or other means so as to prevent
access to the electric-supply lines and apparatus therein by an unauthorized person;
(c) underground street boxes (other than substations) which contain transformers
shall not contain switches or other apparatus, and switches, cut-outs or other
apparatus required for controlling or other purposes shall be fixed in separate
receptacles above the ground wherever practicable.
(2) Where energy is transformed, suitable provisions shall be made either by connecting with
earth a point of the system at the lower voltage or otherwise to guard against danger by reason
of the said system becoming accidentally charged above its normal voltage by leakage from a
contact with the system at the higher voltage.

222. Pole type substations.- Where platform type construction is used for a pole type
substation and sufficient space for a person to stand on the platform is provided a substantial
hand rail shall be built around the said platform and if the hand rail is of metal, it shall be
connected with earth:
Provided that in the case of pole type substation on wooden supports and wooden platform the
metal hand-rail shall not be connected with earth.

223. Condensers.- Suitable provision shall be made for immediate and automatic
discharge of every static condenser on disconnection of supply.

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224. Additional provisions for supply to medium voltage luminous tube sign
installation.- (1) Any person who proposes to use or who is using energy for the purpose of
operating a luminous tube sign installation, or who proposes to transform or who is
transforming energy to a high voltage for any such purpose shall comply with the following
conditions, namely:-
(a) all live parts of the installation (including all apparatus and live conductors in the
secondary circuit, but excluding the tubes except in the neighborhood of their terminals)
shall be inaccessible to unauthorized persons and such parts shall be effectively
screened;
(b) irrespective of the method of obtaining the voltage of the circuit which feeds the
luminous discharge tube sign, no part of any conductor of such circuit shall be in
metallic connection (except in respect of its connection with earth) with any conductor
of the supply system or with the primary winding of the transformer;
(c) all live parts of an exterior installation shall be so disposed as to protect them against the
effects of the weather and such installation shall be so arranged and separated from the
surroundings as to limit, as far as possible, the spreading of fire;
(d) the secondary circuit shall be permanently earthed at the transformer and the core of
every transformer shall be earthed;
(e) where the conductors of the primary circuit are not in metallic connection with the
supply conductors, (e.g., where a motor-generator or a double-wound converter is used),
one phase of such primary circuit shall be permanently earthed at the motor generator or
converter, or at the transformer;
(f) an earth leakage circuit breaker of sufficient rating shall be provided on the low voltage
side to detect the leakage in such luminous tube sign installations;
(g) a final sub-circuit which forms the primary circuit of a fixed luminous discharge tube
sign installation shall be reserved solely for such purpose;
(h) a separate primary final sub-circuit shall be provided for each transformer or each group
of transformers having an aggregate input not exceeding 1,000 volt- amperes, of a fixed
luminous-discharge-tube sign installation;
(i) an interior installation shall be provided with suitable adjacent means for disconnecting
all phases of the supply except the “neutral” in a three-phase four wire circuit;
(j) for installations on the exterior of a building a suitable emergency fire-proof linked
switch to operate on all phases except the neutral in a three phase four wire circuit shall
be provided and fixed in a conspicuous position at not more than 2.75 meters above the
ground;
(k) a special “caution” notice shall be affixed in a conspicuous place on the door of every
high voltage enclosure to the effect that the low voltage supply must be cut off before
the enclosure is opened;
(l) where static condensers are used, they shall be installed on the load side of the fuses and
the primary (low voltage) side of the transformers.
(2) The owner or user of any luminous tube sign or similar medium/high voltage installation shall
not bring the same into use without approval of the distribution licensee.

225. Additional provisions for supply to high voltage electrode boilers.- (1) Where a system
having a point connected with earth is used for supply of energy at medium or high voltage to

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an electrode boiler which is also connected with earth, the following conditions shall apply,
namely:-
(a) the metal work of the electrode boiler shall be efficiently connected to the metal
sheathing and metallic armoring (if any) of the high voltage electric supply line whereby
energy is supplied to the electrode boiler;
(b) the supply of energy at medium or high voltage to the electrode boiler shall be
controlled by a suitable circuit-breaker so set as to operate in the event of the phase
currents becoming unbalanced to the extent of 10 per cent of the rated current
consumption of the electrode boiler under normal conditions of operation:
provided that if in any case a higher setting is essential to ensure stability of operation of
the electrode boiler, the setting may be increased so as not to exceed 15 per cent of the
rated current consumption of the electrode boiler under normal conditions of operation;
(c) an inverse time element device may be used in conjunction with the aforesaid circuit
breaker to prevent the operation thereof unnecessarily on the occurrence of unbalanced
phase currents of momentary or short duration.
(2) The owner or user of any medium or high voltage electrode boiler shall not bring the same
into use without approval of the distribution licensee.

226. Supply to X-ray and high frequency installation.- (1) Any person who proposes to employ
or who is employing energy for the purpose of operating an X-ray or similar highfrequency
installation, shall comply with the following conditions, namely:-
(a) mechanical barriers shall be provided to prevent too close an approach to any
medium/high voltage parts of the X-ray apparatus, except the X-ray tube and its leads,
unless such medium/high voltage parts have been rendered shock-proof by being
shielded by earthed metal or adequate insulating material;
(b) where medium/high voltage generators operating at 300 peak KV or more are used, such
generators shall be installed in rooms separate from those containing the other
equipment and any step-up transformer employed shall be so installed and protected as
to prevent danger;
(c) a suitable switch shall be provided to control the circuit supplying a generator, and shall
be so arranged as to be open except while the door of the room housing the generator is
locked from the outside;
(d) X-ray tubes used in therapy shall be mounted in an earthed metal enclosure;
(e) every X-ray machine shall be provided with a mille-meter or other suitable measuring
instrument, readily visible from the control position and connected, if practicable, in the
earthed lead, but guarded if connected in the high-voltage lead;
(f) notwithstanding the provisions of clause (e), earth leakage circuit breaker of sufficient
rating shall be provided on the low voltage side to detect the leakage in such X-ray
installations;
(g) the provisions set out in clauses (a) to (f) shall not apply to shock-proof portable units
or shock-proof self contained and stationary units.
Note.- The expression “shock proof”, as applied to X-Ray and high-frequency equipment,
shall mean that such equipment is guarded with earthed metal so that no person may
come into contact with any live part.
(2) (a) in the case of non-shock-proof equipment, the overhead high-voltage
conductors shall, unless suitably guarded against personal contact, be adequately

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 spaced and high voltage leads on tilting tables and fluoroscopes shall be adequately
insulated or so surrounded by barriers as to prevent inadvertent contact;
(b) the low voltage circuit of the step up transformer shall contain a manually operated control
device having overload protection, in addition to the over-current device for circuit
protection, and these devices shall have no exposed live parts and for diagnostic work there
shall be an additional switch in the said circuit, which shall be of one of the following types,
namely:-
(i) a switch with a spring or other mechanism that will open automatically except
while held close by the operator; or
(ii) a time switch which will open automatically after a definite period of time for
which it has been set;
(c) if more than one piece of apparatus be operated from the same medium or high voltage
source each shall be provided with a medium or high voltage switch to give independent
control;
(d) low frequency current-carrying parts of a machine of the quenched-gap or open gap type
shall be so insulated or guarded that they cannot be touched during operation, the high
frequency circuit proper which delivers high-frequency current normally for the therapeutic
purposes, being exempted;
(e) all X-ray generators having capacitors shall have suitable means for discharging the
capacitors manually;
(f) except in the case of self-contained units, all 200 peak kV or higher, X-ray generators shall
have a sphere gap installed in the high-voltage system adjusted so that it will break down on
over-voltage surges.
(3) (a) All non-current carrying metal parts of tube stands, fluroscopes and other apparatus shall
be properly earthed and insulating floors, mats or platforms shall be provided for operator in
proximity to medium or high voltage parts unless such parts have been rendered shock
proof;
(b) where short wave therapy machines are used, the treatment tables and examining chairs
shall be wholly non-metallic.
(4) The owner of any X-ray installation or similar high frequency apparatus shall not bring the
same into use without approval of the distribution licensee:
Provided that no such approval shall be required in the case of shock-proof portable X-ray and
high-frequency equipment which have been inspected before the commencement of their use
and periodically thereafter.

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 CHAPTER 14

OVERHEAD LINES, UNDER GROUND CABLES AND

GENERATING STATIONS

227. Material and strength.- (1) All conductors of overhead lines, other than overhead
telecommunication line erected on same supports carrying a power line, shall have a breaking
strength of not less than 350 kg.
(2) Where the voltage is low and the span is of less than 15 meters and is on the consumer’s premises, a
conductor having an actual breaking strength of not less than 150 kg may be used.

228. Joints.- Joints between conductors of overhead lines shall be mechanically and
electrically secure under the conditions of operation. The ultimate strength of the joint shall not
be less than 95 per cent of that of the conductor, and the electrical conductivity not less than
that of the conductor:
Provided that no conductor of an overhead line shall have more than two joints in a span.

229. Maximum stresses: factors of safety.- (1) The owner of every overhead line shall
ensure that it has the following minimum factors of safety, namely:-
(a) for metal supports - 2.0
(b) for mechanically processed concrete supports - 2.0
(c) for hand-molded concrete supports - 2.5
(d) for wood supports - 3.0
(2) The minimum factors of safety shall be based on such load as would cause failure of the support
to perform its function (assuming that the foundation and other components of the structure are
intact).

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(3) The aforesaid load shall be -
(a) equivalent to the yield point stress or the modulus of rupture, as the case
may be, for supports subject to bending and vertical loads; (b) the
crippling load for supports used struts.
(4) The said owner shall also ensure that the strength of the supports in the direction of the line is
not less than one-fourth of the strength required in the direction transverse to the line:
Provided that in the case of latticed steel or other compound structures, factors of safety shall
not be less than 2.0 under such broken wire conditions as may be specified by the Commission
in this behalf.
(5) The minimum factor of safety for stay-wires, guard-wires or bearer-wires shall be 2.5 based on
the ultimate tensile strength of the wire.
(6) The minimum factor of safety for conductors shall be 2, based on their ultimate tensile strength.
In addition, the conductor’s tension at 320C, without external load, shall not exceed the
following percentages of the ultimate tensile strength of the conductor, namely:-
(a) initial unloaded tension …….. 35 per cent;
(b) final unloaded tension ….….. 25 per cent:
Provided that in the case of conductors having a cross section of a generally triangular shape,
such as conductors composed of 3-wires, the final unloaded tension at 32 0C shall not exceed 30
per cent of the ultimate tensile strength of such conductor.
(7) For the purpose of calculating the factors of safety prescribed in the foregoing subregulations,-
(a) the maximum wind pressure shall be such as the relevant authority may specify in each case;
(b) for cylindrical bodies the effective area shall be taken as two-thirds of the projected area
exposed to wind pressure;
(c) for latticed steel or other compound structures the wind pressure on the lee side members
shall be taken as one-half of the wind pressure on the windward side members and the
factors of safety shall be calculated on the crippling load of struts and upon the elastic limit
of tension members;
(d) the maximum and minimum temperatures shall be such as the relevant authority may
specify in each case.

230. Clearance above ground of the lowest conductor.- (1) No conductor of an overhead line,
including service lines, erected across a street shall, at any part thereof, be at a height of less
than-
(a) for low voltage lines : 5.8 meters: (b) for
medium voltage lines : 6.1 meters.
(2) No conductor of an overhead line, including service lines, erected along any street shall, at
any part thereof, be at a height less than-
(a) for low voltage lines : 5.5 meters; (b) for medium voltage lines : 5.8 meters.
(3) No conductor of an overhead line including service lines, erected elsewhere than along or
across any street, shall be at a height less than -
(a) for bare low and medium voltages lines up to and including 11 kV : 4.6 meters;
(b) for insulated low and medium voltage lines up to and including 11 kV : 4.0 meters;
(c) for high voltage lines above 11 kV : 5.2 meters.
(4) For high voltage lines the clearance above ground shall not be less than 5.2 meters plus 0.3
meter for every 33,000 volts or part thereof by which the voltage of the line exceeds 33,000 volts:

96
Provided that the minimum clearance along or across any street shall not be less than 6.1 meters.

231. Clearance from buildings of low and medium voltage lines and service lines.- (1) Where a
low voltage overhead line passes above or adjacent to or terminates on any building, the
following minimum clearances from any accessible point, on the basis of maximum sag, shall
be observed, namely:-
(a) for any flat roof, open balcony, verandah roof and lean-to-roof-
(i) when the line passes above the building a vertical clearance of 2.5 meters
from the highest point; and
(ii) when the line passes adjacent to the building a horizontal clearance of 1.2
meters from the nearest point; and (b) for pitched roof-
(i) when the line passes above the building a vertical clearance of 2.5 meters
immediately under the lines; and
(ii) when the line passes adjacent to the building a horizontal clearance of
1.2 meters.
(2) Any conductor so situated as to have a clearance less than that specified in sub-regulation
(1) above shall be adequately insulated and shall be attached at suitable intervals to a bare
earthed bearer wire having a breaking strength of not less than 350 kg.
(3) The horizontal clearance shall be measured when the line is at a maximum deflection from
the vertical due to wind pressure.
Explanation.- For the purpose of this regulation, the expression “building” shall be deemed to include
any structure, whether permanent or temporary.

232. Clearances from buildings of high voltage lines.- (1) Where a high voltage overhead line
passes above or adjacent to any building or part of a building it shall have on the basis of
maximum sag a vertical clearance above the highest part of the building immediately under
such line, of not less than-
(a) for high voltage lines up to and including 33,000 volts, 3.7 meters;
(b) for high voltage lines, 3.7 meters plus 0.30 meter for every additional 33,000 volts or part
thereof.
(2) The horizontal clearance between the nearest conductor and any part of such building shall, on
the basis of maximum deflection due to wind pressure, be not less than-
(a) for medium voltage lines upto and including 11,000 volts, 1.2 meters;
(b) for high voltage lines above 11,000 volts and up to and including 33,000 volts, 2.0 meters;
(c) for extra-high voltage lines, 2.0 meters plus 0.3 meter for every additional 33,000 volts or part
thereof.
Explanation.- For the purpose of this regulation, the expression ” building” shall be deemed to
include any structure, whether permanent or temporary.

233. Conductors at different voltages on same supports.- Where conductors forming

parts of systems at different voltages are erected on the same supports, the distribution licensee
shall make adequate provision to guard against danger to linesman and others from the lower
voltage system being charged above its normal working voltage by leakage from or contact
with the higher voltage system and the methods of construction shall be in acceptable practice

97
and the clearances between the conductors of the two systems shall be in accordance with this
Code.

234. Erection of or alteration to buildings, structures, flood banks and elevation of

roads.- (1) If at any time subsequent to the erection of an overhead line (whether covered with
insulating material or bare), any person proposes to erect a new building or structure or flood
bank or to raise any road level or to carry out any other type of work whether permanent or
temporary or to make in or upon any building or structure or flood bank or road, any permanent
or temporary addition or alteration, he and the contractor, when he employs to carry out the
erection, addition or alteration, shall, if such work, building, structure, flood bank, road or
additions and alterations thereto, would, during or after the construction, result in contravention
of any of the provisions of this Chapter, give notice in writing of his intention to the distribution
licensee and shall furnish therewith a scale drawing showing the proposed building, structure,
flood bank, road, any addition or alteration and scaffolding required during the construction.
(2) On receipt of the notice referred to in sub-regulation (1) above or otherwise, the
distribution licensee shall examine whether the line under reference was lawfully laid and
whether the person was liable to pay the cost of alteration and, if so, send a notice without
undue delay, to such person together with an estimate of the cost of the expenditure likely to be
incurred to so alter the overhead line and require him to deposit, within 30 days of the receipt of
the notice, with the distribution licensee the amount of the estimated cost.
(3) If the person referred to in sub-regulation (1) above disputes the distribution licensee’s
estimated cost of alteration of the overhead line or even the responsibility to pay such cost the
dispute may be referred to the Commission by either of the parties whereupon the same shall be
decided by the Commission.
(4) No work upon such building, structure, flood bank, road and addition or alteration thereto
shall be commenced or continued until the distribution licensee is satisfied that the provisions
of this Chapter are not likely to be contravened either during or after the aforesaid construction:
Provided that the distribution licensee may, if satisfied that the overhead line has been so
guarded as to secure the protection of persons or property from injury, or risk of injury, permit
the work to be executed prior to the alteration of the overhead line or, in the case of temporary
addition or alteration, without alteration of the overhead line.
(5) On receipt of the deposit, the distribution licensee shall alter the overhead line within one
month of the date of deposit.
(6) In the absence of an agreement to the contrary between the parties concerned, the cost of
such alteration of the overhead line referred to in sub-regulation (2) shall be estimated on the
following basis, namely:-
(a) the cost of additional material used on the alteration giving due credit for the
depreciated cost of the material which would be available from the existing line;
(b) the wages of labour employed in effecting the alteration;
(c) supervision charges to the extent of 15 per cent of the wages mentioned in clause
(b); and
(d) any statutory charges incurred by the distribution licensee in respect of such
alterations.
(7) Where the estimated cost of the alteration of the overhead line is not deposited, the
distribution licensee shall be considered as an aggrieved party for the purpose of this regulation.

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235. Transporting and storing of material near overhead lines.- (1) No rods, pipes or similar
materials shall be taken below or in the vicinity of any bare overhead conductors or lines if they
are likely to infringe the provisions for clearances stated in this Chapter, unless such materials
are transported under the direct supervision of a competent person authorized in this behalf by
the owner of such overhead conductors or lines.
(2) Under no circumstances rods, pipes or other similar materials shall be brought within the
flash over distance of bare live conductors or lines.
(3) No material or earth work or agricultural produce shall be dumped or stored or trees grown
below or in the vicinity of bare overhead conductors/ lines so as to reduce the requisite safety
clearances specified in this Chapter.

236. Clearances: General.- For the purpose of computing the vertical clearance of an
overhead line, the maximum sag of any conductor shall be calculated on the basis of the
maximum sag in still air and the maximum temperature declared by relevant authority or may
be taken as 400C, whichever is greater. Similarly, for the purpose of computing any horizontal
clearance of an overhead line the maximum deflection of any conductor shall be calculated on
the basis of the wind pressure by the relevant authority.

237. Routes: Proximity to aerodromes.- Overhead lines shall not be erected in the
vicinity of aerodromes until the aerodrome authorities have approved in writing the route of the
proposed lines.

238. Maximum interval between supports.- All conductors shall be attached to supports
at intervals not exceeding the safe limits based on the ultimate tensile strength of the conductor
and the factor of safety prescribed above:
Provided that in the case of overhead lines carrying low voltage conductors, when erected in, over,
along or across any street, the interval shall not exceed 70 meters.

239. Conditions to apply where telecommunication lines and power lines are carried on
same supports.- (1) Every overhead telecommunication line erected on supports carrying a
power line shall consist of conductors each having a breaking strength of not less than 270 kg.
(2) Every telephone used on a telecommunication line erected on supports carrying a power line
shall be suitably guarded against lightning and shall be protected by cut-outs.
(3) Where a telecommunication line is erected on supports carrying a high voltage power line,
arrangement shall be made to safeguard any person using the telephone against injury resulting
from contact, leakage or induction between such power and telecommunication lines.

240. Lines crossing or approaching each other.- (1) Where an overhead line crosses or is in
proximity to any telecommunication line, either the owner of the overhead line or the
telecommunication line, whoever lays his line later, shall arrange to provide for protective
devices or guarding arrangements, in a manner laid down in Code of Practice or the guidelines
made by the Commission in this respect, if any, and subject to the provisions laid down in the
succeeding sub-regulation.
(2) When it is intended to erect a telecommunication line or an overhead line which shall cross
or be in proximity to an overhead line or a telecommunication line, as the case may be, the

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 person proposing to erect such line shall give one month’s notice of his intention so to do
along with the relevant details of protection and drawings to the owner of the existing line.
(3) Where an overhead line crosses or is in proximity to another overhead line, guarding
arrangements shall be provided so to guard against the possibility of their coming into
contact with each other.
(4) Where an overhead line crosses another overhead line, clearances shall be as under:-

Minimum clearances in meters between lines crossing each other

Sl Circuit/ Line Clearance in Meter

.
Lower  Upper  11 - 66 kV 132 kV 230 kV 400 kV 800 kV
1. Low Tension 2.5 3.0 4.6 5.5 8.0
2. 11 - 66 kV 2.5 3.0 4.6 5.5 8.0
3. 132 kV 3.0 3.0 4.6 5.5 8.0
4. 230 kV 4.6 4.6 4.6 5.5 8.0
5. 400 kV 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5 8.0
6. 800 kV 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0:

Provided that no guarding is required when a high voltage line crosses over another high
voltage, medium or low voltage line or a road subject to the condition that adequate clearances
are provided between the lowest conductor of the high voltage line and the top most conductor
of the overhead line crossing underneath the high voltage line and the clearances as stipulated in
this Chapter from the topmost surface of the road are maintained.
(5) A person erecting or proposing to erect a line which may cross or be in proximity with an
existing line, shall normally provide guarding arrangements on his own line or require the
owner of the other overhead line to provide guarding arrangements as referred to in
subregulation (3) above.
(6) In all cases referred to in the preceding sub-regulations the expenses of providing the
guarding arrangements or protective devices shall be borne by the person whose line was
last erected.
(7) Where two lines cross, the crossing shall be made as nearly at right angles as the nature of
the case admits and as near the support of the lines as practicable, and the support of the
lower line shall not be erected below the upper line.
(8) The guarding arrangements shall ordinarily be carried out by the owner of the supports on
which it is made and he shall be responsible for its efficient maintenance.

241. Guarding.- (1) Where guarding is required under these regulations the provisions of sub-regulations (2) to
(4) shall apply.
(2) Every guard-wire shall be connected with earth at each point at which its electrical continuity is
broken.
(3) Every guard-wire shall have an actual breaking strength of not less than 635 kg and if made of
iron or steel, shall be galvanized.

100
(4) Every guard-wire or cross-connected systems of guard-wires shall have sufficient currentcarrying
capacity to ensure the rendering dead, without risk of fusing of the guard-wire or wires till the
contact of any live wire has been removed.

242. Service-lines from overhead lines.- No service-line or tapping shall be taken off
an overhead line except at a point of support:
Provided that the number of tapping per conductor shall not be more than four unless service bails
are used in case of low voltage connections.

243. Earthing.- (1) All metal supports and all reinforced and pre-stressed cement
concrete supports of overhead lines and metallic fittings attached thereto, shall be permanently
and efficiently earthed. For this purpose, a continuous earth wire shall be provided and securely
fastened to each pole and connected with earth ordinarily at three points in every km, the
spacing between the points being as nearly equidistance as possible. Alternatively, each support
and the metallic fitting attached thereto shall be efficiently earthed.
(2) Metallic bearer wire used for supporting insulated wire of low voltage overhead service lines
shall be efficiently earthed or insulated.
(3 Each stay-wire shall be similarly earthed unless insulator has been placed in it at a height not
less than 3.0 meters from the ground.

244. Safety and protective devices.- (1) Every overhead line, (not being suspended from a dead
bearer wire and not being covered with insulating material) erected over any part of street or
other public place or in any factory or mine or on any consumer’s premises shall be protected
with a device for rendering the line electrically harmless in case it breaks.
(2) The owner of every high voltage overhead line shall make adequate arrangements to
prevent unauthorized persons from ascending any of the supports of such overhead lines which
can be easily climbed upon without the help of a ladder to special appliances, rails, reinforced
cement concrete poles and pre-stressed cement concrete poles without steps, tubular poles,
wooden supports without steps, I-sections and channels shall be deemed as supports which
cannot be easily climbed upon.

245. Protection against lightning.- (1) The owner of every overhead line, substation or
generating station which is so exposed as to be liable to injury from lightning shall adopt
efficient means for diverting to earth any electrical surges due to lightning.
(2) The earthing lead for any lightning arrestor shall not pass through any iron or steel pipe, but
shall be taken as directly as possible from the lightning-arrestor to a separate earth electrode
and/or junction of the earth mat already provided for the high and extra high voltage substation
subject to the avoidance of bends wherever practicable.
Note.- A vertical ground electrode shall be connected to this junction of the earth mat.

246. Unused overhead lines.- (1) Where an overhead line ceases to be used as an electric supply
line, the owner may, subject to sub-regulation (2), maintain it in a safe mechanical condition or
remove it.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-regulation (1), where any overhead line ceases
to be used as an electric supply line for more than two years, the owner shall remove it.

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 CHAPTR 15

PRECAUTIONS TO BE ADOPTED IN MINES AND OIL-FIELDS

247. Application of the Chapter.- (1) The provisions laid down in this Chapter shall apply only
where energy is used in mines as defined in the Mines Act, 1923 (Act No. IV of 1923).
(2) In mines and oil fields, the provisions of in this Chapter shall not apply to apparatus above
the ground level except where such apparatus may directly affect the safety of the persons
employed in underground, open-cast and oil fields.

248. Responsibility for observance.- (1) It shall be the duty of the owner, agent, engineer or
manager of a mine, or of the agent, engineer of any company operating in an oil field, or of the
owner, engineer of one or more drilled wells situated in an oil field, to comply with and enforce
the provisions of succeeding regulations of this Chapter and it shall be the duty of all persons
employed to conduct their work in accordance with such provisions.
(2) Adequate number of authorized supervisors and electricians shall be on duty in every mine or oil-
field while energy is being used therein.

249. Notices.- (1) On or before the first day of February every year, the persons specified in
regulation 248 (1) shall, in respect of every mine or oil-field, submit to the distribution licensee
such returns giving the size and type of apparatus, together with such particulars in regard to its
use as may be required by the distribution licensee.
(2) Persons specified in the aforesaid regulation 248 (1) shall also give to the distribution
licensee not less than seven days’ notice in writing of the intention to bring into use any new
installation in a mine or oil-field giving details of apparatus installed and its location:
Provided that in case of any additions or alterations to an existing low voltage installation,
immediate notice in writing shall be sent to the distribution licensee before such additions or
alterations are brought into use.
(3) These provisions shall not apply to telecommunication or signaling apparatus.

250. Plans.- (1) A correct plan, on the same scale as the plan kept at the mine in fulfillment of
the requirements of the Mines Act, 1923 (Act No. IV of 1923), shall be available in the office at
the mine showing the position of all fixed apparatus and conductors therein, other than lights,
telecommunication or signaling apparatus, or cables for the same.
(2) A similar plan on the scale not less than 25 cm. to a km. (1:4000) shall be kept by the
manager or owner of one or more wells in any oil-field.
(3) A similar plan on such scale as the Commission may direct, showing the position of all
electric supply lines, shall be kept in the office of any distribution licensee or other person
transmitting or distributing energy in a mine or oil-field.
(4) The plans specified in this regulation shall be examined and corrected as often as necessary
to keep them reasonably up-to-date. The dates of such examinations shall be entered thereon by
the manager or owner of the mine or wells and such plans shall be available to the distribution
licensee at any time.

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251. Lighting, communications and fire precautions.- (1) In a mine illuminated by electricity,
one or more flame safety lamps, or other lights shall be maintained in a state of continuous
illumination in all places where failure of the electric light at any time would be prejudicial to
safety.
(2) Efficient means of communication shall be provided in every mine between the point where
the switchgear, provided under regulations 258 and 259 of this Chapter, is erected and the shaft
bottom or other distributing centers in the mines.
(3) Fire extinguishing appliances of adequate capacity and of an approved type shall be
installed and properly maintained in every place in a mine containing apparatus, other than
cables, telecommunications and signaling apparatus.

252. Isolation and fixing of transformer, switchgear, etc.- (1) Where necessary to prevent
danger of mechanical damage, transformers and switchgear shall be placed in a separate room,
compartment or box.
(2) Unless the apparatus is so constructed, protected and worked as to obviate the risk of fire,
no inflammable material shall be used in the construction of any room, compartment or box
containing apparatus, or in the construction of any of the fittings therein. Each such room,
compartment or box shall be substantially constructed and shall be kept dry and illuminated and
efficient ventilation shall be provided for all apparatus installed therein.
(3) Adequate working space and means of access, clear of obstruction and free from danger,
shall, so far as circumstances permit, be provided for all apparatus that has to be worked or
attended to and all handles intended to be operated shall be conveniently placed for that
purpose.

253. Method of earthing.- Where earthing is necessary in a mine it shall be carried out
by connection to an earthing system at the surface of the mine, in a manner approved by the
distribution licensee.

254. Protective equipment.- (1) In the interest of safety, appropriate equipment shall be
suitably placed in the mines for automatically disconnecting supply to any part of the system,
where a fault including an earth fault occurs. Fault current shall not be more than 750 milliamps
in 550/1100 volt systems for underground oil fields and 50 amps in 3.3 kV/6.6 kV systems in
open cast mines. The magnitude of the earth fault current shall be limited to these specified
values by employing suitably designed, restricted neutral system of power supply.
(2) The operation of the switchgear and the relays shall be recorded daily at the generating
station, substation or switch station in the register kept for the purpose.
(3) The effectiveness of the switchgear and the protective system shall always be kept and
maintained in working order, shall be checked once every three months and the result thereof
shall be recorded in a separate register kept for the purpose.

255. Earthing metal, etc.- (1) All metallic sheaths, coverings, handles, joint boxes, switchgear
frames, instrument covers, switch and fuse covers of boxes, all lamp-holders (unless efficiently
protected by an insulated covering made of fire resisting material) and the frames and bedplates
of generators, transformers and motors (including portable motors), shall be earthed by
connection to an earthing system in the manner prescribed in regulation 253 above.

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(2) Where cables are provided with a metallic covering constructed and installed in accordance with
regulation 260 (d), such metallic covering may be used as a means of connection to the earthing
system.
(3) All conductors of an earthing system shall have conductivity, at all parts and all joints, at least equal
to 50 per cent of that of the largest conductor used solely to supply the apparatus, a part of which it is
desired to earth:
Provided that no conductor of an earthing system shall have a cross-sectional area less than 0.15
sq. cm. except in the case of the earth conductor of a flexible cable used with portable apparatus
where the voltage does not exceed 125 volts, and the cross-sectional area and conductance of
the earth-core is not less than that of the largest of the live conductors in the cable.
(4) All joints in earth conductors and all joints in the metallic covering of cables shall be properly
soldered or otherwise efficiently made.
(5) No switch, fuse or circuit-breaker shall be inserted in any earth conductor.
(6) The provisions of the above sub-regulations shall not apply (except in the case of portable apparatus)
to any system in a mine in which the voltage does not exceed 30 volts.

256. Voltage limits.- Energy shall not be transmitted into a mine at a voltage exceeding
11,000 volts and shall not be used therein at a voltage exceeding 6,600 volts: Provided that-
(a) where hand-held portable apparatus is used, the voltage shall not exceed 125 volts;
(b) where electric lighting is used,-
(i) in underground mines, the lighting system shall have a mid or neutral point
connected with earth and the voltage shall not exceed 125 volts between phases;
(ii) on the surface of a mine or in an open cast mine, the voltage may be raised to
250 volts, if the neutral or the mid point of the system is connected with earth and
the voltage between the phases does not exceed 250 volts;
(c) where portable hand-lamps are used in underground working of mine, the voltage shall not
exceed 30 volts;
(d) where any circuit is used for the remote control or electric inter-locking of apparatus, the
circuit voltage shall not exceed 30 volts:
provided that in fixed plants, the said voltage may be permitted upto 650 volts, if the bolted
type plug is used.

257. Transformers.- Where energy is transformed, suitable provision shall be made to

guard against danger by reason of the lower voltage apparatus becoming accidentally charged
above its normal voltage by leakage from or contact with the higher voltage apparatus.

258. Switchgear and terminals.- Switchgear and all terminals, cable-ends, cable joints
and connections to apparatus shall be totally enclosed and shall be constructed, installed and
maintained as to comply with the following requirements, namely:-
(a) all parts shall be of mechanical strength sufficient to resist rough usage;
(b) all conductors and contact areas shall be of adequate current-carrying capacity and all joints
in conductors shall be properly soldered or otherwise efficiently made;
(c) the lodgment of any matter likely to diminish the insulation or affect the working of any
switchgear shall be prevented;

104
 (d) all live parts shall be so protected or enclosed as to prevent persons accidentally coming into
contact with them and to prevent danger from arcs, short-circuits, fire, water, gas or oil;
(e) where there may be risk of igniting gas, coal-dust, oil or other inflammable material, all parts
shall be so protected as to prevent open sparking; and
(f) every switch or circuit-breaker shall be so constructed as to be capable of opening the circuit,
if controls and dealing with any short-circuit without danger.

259. Disconnection of supply.- (1) Properly constructed switchgear for disconnecting

the supply of energy to a mine or oil-field shall be provided at a point approved by the
distribution licensee. During the time any cable supplying energy to the mine from the aforesaid
switchgear is live, a person authorized to operate the said switchgears shall be available within
easy reach thereof:
Provided that in the case of gassy coal seam, the main mechanical ventilator operated by
electricity shall be interlocked with the switchgear so as to automatically disconnect the power
supply in the event of stoppage of main mechanical ventilator.
(2) Where necessary in the interest of safety, appropriate apparatus, suitably placed, shall be
provided for disconnecting the supply from every part of a system.
(3) Where considered necessary by the distribution licensee in the interest of safety, the
apparatus specified in sub-regulation (2) above shall be so arranged as to disconnect
automatically from the supply any section of the system subjected to a fault.
(4) Every motor shall be controlled by switchgear which shall be so arranged as to disconnect
the supply from the motor and from all apparatus connected thereto. Such switchgear shall be
so placed as to be easily operated by the person authorized to operate the motor.
(5) Whenever required by the distribution licensee the motor shall be controlled by a switchgear
to disconnect automatically the supply in the event of conditions of over-current, over-voltage
and single phasing.

260. Cables.- All cables, other than flexible cables for portable or transportable
apparatus, shall comply with the following requirements, namely:-
(a) all such cables (other than the outer conductor of a concentric cable) shall be covered
with insulating material and shall be efficiently protected from mechanical damage and
supported at sufficiently frequent intervals and in such a manner as to prevent damage
to such cables;
(b) (i) except as provided in clause (c), no cables other than concentric cables or two
core or multi-core cables protected by a metallic covering or single core cables
protected by a metallic covering and which contain all the conductors of a circuit
shall be used-
(A) where the voltage exceeds 125 volts, or
(B) when the distribution licensee considers that there is risk of igniting gas or coal-
dust or other inflammable material, and so directs;
(ii) the sheath of metal-sheathed cables and the metallic armoring of armored cables shall
be of a thickness not less than that recommended from time to time in the
IEC 60502 or any other appropriate Standard;
(c) where a medium voltage direct current system is used, two single core cables may be
used for any circuit provided that their metallic coverings are bounded together by earth
conductors so placed that the distance between any two consecutive bonds is not greater

105
 than 30 meters measured along either cable; (d) the metallic covering of every cable
shall be-
(i) electrically and mechanically continuous throughout;
(ii) earthed, if it is required by regulation 255 (1) to be earthed by a connection to the earthing
system of conductivity not less than of the same length of the said metallic covering;
(iii) efficiently protected against corrosion where necessary;
(iv) of a conductivity at all parts and at all joints at least equal to 50 per cent of the conductivity
of the largest conductor enclosed by the said metallic covering; and
(v) where there may be risk of igniting gas, coal-dust, or other inflammable material, so
constructed as to prevent, as far as practicable, the occurrence of open sparking so as the
result of any fault or leakage from live conductors;
(e) cables and conductors where connected to motors, transformers, switchgear and other apparatus,
shall be installed so that-
(i) they are mechanically protected by securely attaching the metallic covering to the
apparatus; and
(ii) the insulating material at each cable end is efficiently sealed so as to prevent the
diminution of its insulating properties;
(f) where necessary to prevent abrasion or to secure gas-tightness, properly constructed
glands or bushes shall be provided;
(g) unarmored cables or conductors shall be conveyed either in metallic pipes or metal
casings or suspended from efficient insulators by means of non-conducting materials
which shall not cut the covering and which shall prevent contact with any timbering or
metal work. If separate insulated conductors are used, they shall be installed at least
3.75 cm. apart and shall not be brought together except at lamps, switches and fittings.

261. Flexible cables.- (1) Flexible cables for portable or transportable apparatus shall
be twocore or multi-core (unless required for electric welding), and shall be covered with
insulating material which shall be efficiently protected from mechanical injury. If flexible
metallic covering is used either as the outer conductor of a concentric cable or as a means of
protection from mechanical injury, it shall not be used by itself to form an earth conductor for
such apparatus, but it may be used for that purpose in conjunction with an earthing core.
(2) Every flexible cable intended for use with portable or transportable apparatus shall be
connected to the system and to such apparatus by properly constructed connectors: Provided
that for high voltage machines a bolted type connector shall be used and the trailing cable shall
be suitably anchored at the machine end.
(3) At every point where flexible cables are joined to main cables, a circuit breaker shall be
provided which is capable of automatically disconnecting the supply from such flexible cables.
(4) Every flexible cable attached to a portable or transportable machine shall be examined
periodically by the person authorized to operate the machine, and if such cable is used
underground, it shall be examined at least once in each shift by such person. If such cable is
found to be damaged or defective, it shall forthwith be replaced by a cable in good condition.
(5) If the voltage of the circuit exceeds low voltage, all flexible cable attached to any
transportable apparatus shall be provided with flexible metallic screening or pliable armoring:
Provided that this provision shall not apply to flexible cables attached to any transportable
apparatus used in open cast mines where reeling and unreeling of such cables is necessary as
per design features of the equipment.

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(6) All flexible metallic screening or armoring specified in sub-regulation (5) above shall
comply with the provisions of regulation 260 (d):
Provided that in the case of separately screened flexible cables the conductance of each such
screen shall not be less than 25 per cent of that the power conductor and the combined
conductance of all such screens shall in no case be less than that of 0.15 sq. cm. copper
conductor.
(7) Flexible cable exceeding 90 meters in length shall not be used with any portable or
transportable apparatus:
Provided that such flexible cable when used with coal-cutting machines for long wall operation shall not
exceed 180 meters in length:
Provided further that the aforesaid cable in case of an open cast mine, when used with electrically operated
heavy earth moving machinery shall not exceed 300 meters in length.
(8) Flexible cable, when installed in a mine, shall be efficiently supported and protected from
mechanical injury.
(9) Flexible cables shall not be used with apparatus other than portable or transportable
apparatus.
(10) Where flexible cables are used they shall be detached or otherwise isolated from
the source of supply when not in use, and arrangements shall be made to prevent the energizing
of such cables by unauthorized persons.

262. Portable and transportable machines,- The person authorized to operate an

electrically driven coal-cutter, or other portable or transportable machine, shall not leave the
machine while it is in operation and shall, before leaving the area in which such machine is
operating, ensure that the supply is disconnected from the flexible cable which supplies the
machine. When any such machine is in operation, steps shall be taken to ensure that the flexible
cable is not dragged along by the machine:
Provided that all portable and transportable machines used in underground mines shall operate on
remote control from the concerned switchgear with Pilot Core Protection.

263. Sundry precautions.- (1) All apparatus shall be maintained reasonably free from
dust, dirt and moisture, and shall be kept clear of obstruction.
(2) All apparatus other than portable and transportable apparatus shall be housed in a room,
compartment or box so constructed as to protect the contents from damage occasioned by falling
material or passing traffic.
(3) Inflammable or explosive material shall not be stored in any room, compartment or box
containing apparatus, or in the vicinity of any apparatus.
(4) Should there be a fault in any circuit, the part affected shall be made dead without delay and shall
remain so until the fault has been remedied.
(5) While lamps are being changed the supply shall be disconnected.
(6) No lamp holder shall be in metallic connection with the guard or other metal work of a portable
hand lamp.
(7) The following notices in Bengali and English, so designed and protected as to be easily legible at
all times, shall be exhibited, namely:-
(a) at all places where electrical apparatus is in use, a notice forbidding unauthorized
person to operate or otherwise interfere with such apparatus;

107
 (b) at those places in the interior or at the surface of the mine where a telephone or other
means of communication is provided, a notice giving full instructions to persons
authorized to effect the disconnection, at the surface of the mine, of the supply of
energy to the mine.
(8) All apparatus, including portable and transportable apparatus, shall be operated only by those
persons who are authorized for the purpose.
(9) Where a plug-and-socket-coupling other than of bolted type is used with flexible cables, an
electrical inter-lock or other approved device shall be provided to prevent the opening of the
coupling while the conductors are live.

264. Precautions where gas exists.- (1) In any part of a coal-seam of any degree gassiness,-
(a) all cables shall be constructed, installed, protected, operated and maintained in such
a manner as to prevent risk of open sparking;
(b) at any place which lies in-bye of the last ventilation connection, all signaling,
telecommunication and remote control circuits shall be so constructed, installed,
protected, operated and maintained as to be intrinsically safe;
(c) all apparatus including portable and transportable apparatus including lighting
fittings used at any place which lies in bye of the last ventilation connection shall be
flame-proof;
(d) all electric lamps shall be enclosed in flame-proof enclosures.
(2) In any oil mine or oil-field, at any place within the Danger Areas,-
(a) all signaling, telecommunication and remote control circuits shall be so constructed,
installed, operated, protected and maintained as to be intrinsically safe;
(b) all cables shall be so constructed, installed, operated and maintained as to prevent risk
of open sparking;
(c) all apparatus including portable and transportable apparatus shall be flame-proof; (d) all
electric lamps shall be enclosed in flame-proof enclosures.

(3) In any coal-seam of any degree gassiness or the danger zone of oil-mine the supply shall be
discontinued-
(a) immediately, if open sparking occurs;
(b) during the period required for examination or adjustment of the apparatus, which would
necessitate the exposing of any part liable to open sparking.
(4) The supply shall not be reconnected until the apparatus has been examined by the electrical
supervisor or one of his duly appointed assistants until the defect, if any, has been remedied
or the necessary adjustment made.
(5) A flame safety lamp shall be provided and maintained in a state of continuous illumination
near an apparatus (including portable or transportable apparatus) which remains energized
and where the appearance of the flame of such safety lamps indicates the presence of
inflammable gas, the supply to all apparatus in the vicinity shall be immediately
disconnected and the incident reported forthwith to an official of the mine; and such
apparatus shall be interlocked with the controlling switch in such a manner as to disconnect
power supply automatically in the event of percentage of inflammable gas exceeding one
and one quarter in that particular district:

108
Provided that where apparatus for automatic detection of the percentage of inflammable gas or
vapor are employed in addition to the flame safety lamps, such apparatus shall be maintained in
perfect order.
(6) In any part of a coal-seam of any degree of gassiness or in any hazardous area of an oilmine,
if the presence of inflammable gas in the general body of air is found any time to exceed one
and one-quarter percent, the supply of energy shall be immediately disconnected from all
cables and apparatus in the area and the supply shall not be reconnected so long as the
percentage of inflammable gas remains in excess of one and one quarter per cent.
(7) In an oil mine where concentration of inflammable gas exceeds 20% of its lowest explosive
limit, the supply of electric energy shall be cut-off immediately from all cables and
apparatus lying within 30 meters of the installation and all sources of ignition shall also be
removed from the said area and normal work shall not be resumed unless the area is made
gas-free:
Provided that such disconnection shall not apply to intrinsically safe environmental monitoring scientific
instruments.
(8) Any such disconnection or reconnection of the supply shall be noted in the log sheet which
shall be maintained and shall be reported to the distribution licensee on demand.

265. Shot-firing.- (1) When shot-firing is in progress adequate precautions shall be taken to protect
apparatus and conductors other than those used for shot-firing from injury.
(2) Current from lighting or power circuits shall not be used for firing shots.
(3) The provisions of regulation 261 of this Chapter shall apply in regard to the covering and
protection of shot-firing cables, and adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent such
cable touching other cables and apparatus.

266. Signaling.- Where electrical signaling is used,–

(a) adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent signal and telephone wires coming into contact
with other cables and apparatus;
(b) the voltage used in any one circuit shall not exceed 30 volts;
(c) contact-makers shall be so constructed as to prevent the accidental closing of the circuit;
(d) bare conductors, where used, shall be installed in suitable insulators.

267. Haulage.- Haulage by electric locomotives on the overhead trolley-wire system, at medium
or low voltage, and haulage by storage battery locomotives may be used with the prior
consent in writing of the distribution licensee, and subject to such conditions as it may
impose in the interests of safety.

268. Earthing of neutral points.- Where the voltage of an alternating current system exceeds 30
volts, the neutral or mid-point shall be earthed by connection to an earthing system in the
manner prescribed in regulation 253 above:
Provided that when the system concerned is required for blasting and signaling purposes, the provisions of
this regulation shall not apply:
Provided further that in case of unearthed neutral system adequate protection shall be provided with the
approval of the distribution licensee.

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269. Supervision.- (1) Every person appointed to operate, supervise, examine or adjust any
apparatus shall be competent to undertake the work which he is required to carry-out.
(2) The electrical supervisor shall be responsible for the proper performance of the following
duties, by himself or by any electrician appointed in this behalf, namely:-
(a) thorough examination of all apparatus (including the testing of earth conductors and metallic
coverings for continuity) as often as may be necessary to prevent danger;
(b) examination and testing of all new apparatus, and of all apparatus, re-erected in the mine
before it is put into service in a new position.
(3) In the absence of any electrical supervisor for more than three days, the owner, agent or
manager of the mine or the agent or owner of one or more oil-wells in an oil-field, shall appoint
in writing a substitute electrical supervisor.
(4) The electrical supervisor or the substitute electrical supervisor appointed under
subregulation (3) shall be personally responsible for the maintenance, at the mine or oil-field, of
a log-book made up of the daily log sheets.

270. Exemptions.- The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply in any case where, on
grounds of emergency or special circumstances, exemption is obtained from the Commission.
In granting any such exemption the Commission may impose such conditions as it thinks fit

CHAPTER 16

CONSUMER PROTECTION

271. Consumer's representation.- (1) A consumer aggrieved by any action or omission

by the authorized officer under this Code may file a representation within one year of such
action or omission to the designated authority of the distribution licensee, above the rank of
authorized officer, who shall pass final orders on such a representation within 15 (fifteen) days
of receipt of the representation.
(2) A consumer aggrieved by any decision or indecision of the designated authority of the
distribution licensee may file a representation within 45 (forty-five) days to the chief executive
officer of the distribution licensee who shall pass final orders on such a representation within 15
(fifteen) days of receipt of the representation.
(3) In respect of orders or absence of orders of the chief executive officer of the distribution
licensee on matters provided under the Act, the consumer may make a reference to the
Commission under the Act.

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272. Citizen charter, etc.- The distribution licensee shall be responsible for fulfilling
the distribution performance monitoring standards, which includes the provisions of customer
complaint handling procedures made by the Commission and also the utility citizen charter
made by the utility concerned that shall be available and displayed in Bengali and English at
each electric supply division/unit office and bill collection centre.

273. Professional negligence, misconduct, offence, etc.- (1) If an employee of the

distribution licensee, authorized to do or perform anything, is found guilty of misconduct,
negligence or offence, departmental proceedings shall be conducted against him in accordance
with the service rules under which his service is governed.
(2) Failing to maintain the stipulated time set under different regulations of this Code without
assigning reasons and intimating the same to the consumer/applicant, shall be considered as
negligence on the part of the employee concerned.
(3) If any of such charge/guilt is established, the employee concerned shall be declared unfit for
customer service activities.

CHAPTER 17

FINANCIAL STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION LICENSEE

274. Introduction.- This Chapter applies to all distribution licensees and users including other licensees
for distribution, open access customer/consumers and generators connected to the distribution
system.

275. Objectives.- The objectives of this Chapter are as follows, namely:-

(a) to specify the
financial capability
standards for the
distribution licensees; (b)
to safeguard against the
risk of financial non-
performance;
(c) to ensure the affordability of electric power supply while maintaining the required quality and
reliability;
(d) to protect the public interest; and

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 (e) to protect the distribution licensee’s financial sustainability.

276. Financial ratios.- The following financial ratios shall be used to evaluate the financial capability of
the distribution licensee, namely:-
(a) leverage ratios;
(b) liquidity ratios;
(c) financial efficiency ratios; and (d)
profitability ratios.

277. Leverage ratios.- (1) Leverage ratios shall include the following, namely:-
(a) debt ratio; (b)
debt-equity ratio; and (c)
interest cover.
(2) The debt ratio shall measure the degree of indebtedness of the distribution licensee. The
debt ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of total liabilities to total assets.
(3) The debt ratio shall be used to measure the proportion of assets financed by creditors. The
risk addressed by the debt ratio is the possibility that the distribution licensee cannot pay off
interest and principal.
(4) The debt ratio can also be calculated as the ratio of long-term debt plus value of leases to
long-term debt plus value of leases plus equity. Equity is the sum of outstanding capital stock,
retained earnings, and revaluation increment.
(5) The debt-equity ratio shall indicate the relationship between long-term funds provided by
creditors and those provided by the distribution licensees. The debt-equity ratio shall be
calculated as the ratio of the sum of long-term debt plus value of leases to equity. Equity shall
be the sum of outstanding capital stock, retained earnings, and revaluation increment.
(6) The debt-equity ratio shall be used to compare the financial commitments of creditors
relative to those of the distribution licensees.
(7) The debt-equity ratio shall be used as a measure of the degree of financial leverage of the
distribution licensee.
(8) The interest cover shall measure the ability to service its debts. The interest cover shall be
computed as the ratio of earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) plus depreciation to interest
plus principal payments.
(9) The interest cover shall also be used as a measure of financial leverage for the generator that
focuses on the extent to which contractual interest and principal payments are covered by
earnings before interest and taxes plus depreciation. The interest cover is identical to debt
service coverage ratio because principal payments due during the year are included in the
denominator of the ratio.

278. Liquidity ratios.- (1) Liquidity ratios shall include the following, namely:-
(a) current ratio; and (b) quick ratio.
(2) The current ratio shall measure the ability of the distribution licensee to meet short-term
obligations. The financial current ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of current assets including
inventories to current liabilities. Current assets shall consist of cash and assets that can readily
be turned into cash by the distribution licensee. Current liabilities shall consist of payments that
the distribution licensee is expected to make in the near future.

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(3) The current ratio shall be used as a measure of the margin of liquidity of the distribution
licensee.
(4) The quick ratio shall measure the ability of the distribution licensee to satisfy its shortterm
obligations as they become due. The quick ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of the sum of
cash, marketable securities, and receivables to the current liabilities.
(5) The quick ratio shall be used to measure the safety margin for the payment of current debt
of the distribution licensee if there is shrinkage in the value of cash and receivables.

279. Financial efficiency ratios.- (1) Financial efficiency ratios shall include the following, namely:-
(a) sales-to-assets ratio; and
(b) average collection period.
(2) The sales-to-assets ratio shall measure the efficiency with which the distribution licensee
uses all its assets to generate sales. The sales-to-assets ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of
sales to average total assets. The average total assets shall be determined using the average
of the assets at the beginning and end of the year. The higher the sales-to-assets ratio, the
more efficiently the distribution licensee’s assets have been used.
(3) The average collection period (ACP) shall measure how quickly other entities pay their bills
to the distribution licensee. The average collection period shall be calculated as the ratio of
average receivables to daily sales. The average receivables shall be determined using the
average of the receivables at the beginning and end of the year. Daily sales shall be
computed by dividing annual sales by 365 days.
(4) The average collection period shall be used to evaluate the credit and collection policies of
the distribution licensee.
(5) The following two computations of the average collection period shall be made, namely:- (a)
ACP with government accounts and accounts under litigation; and (b) ACP without
government accounts and accounts under litigation.

280. Profitability ratios.- (1) Profitability ratios shall include the following, namely:- (a)
net profit margin; and (b) return on assets.
(2) The net profit margin shall measure the productivity of sales effort. The net profit margin
shall be calculated as the ratio of net profits after taxes to sales. The net profits after taxes shall
be computed as earnings before interest and taxes minus tax (EBIT–Tax).
(3) The net profit margin shall be used to measure the percentage of the distribution licensee's
sales that remain after all costs and expenses have been deducted.
(4) The return on assets shall measure the overall effectiveness of the distribution licensee in
generating profits from its available assets. The return on assets shall be calculated as the ratio
of earnings before interest and taxes minus tax to the average total assets. The average total
assets shall be computed as the average of the assets at the beginning and end of the year.

281. Submission and evaluation.- (1) The distribution licensee shall submit to the Commission
true copies of audited balance sheet and financial statement for the preceding financial year on
or before December 31 of the current year.
(2) The distribution licensee shall submit to the Commission a statement containing the average
power consumption for each class of consumers for the preceding financial year on or before
December 31 of the current year.

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(3) Failure to submit to the Commission the documents mentioned in sub-regulations (1) and (2)
above shall serve as grounds for the imposition of appropriate sanctions, fines, penalties or
adverse evaluation.
(4) All submissions are to be certified by a duly authorized officer.

282. Uniform system of accounts (USoAC).- (1) The distribution licensee shall follow the
accounting procedures of the Commission, namely, the Uniform System of Accounts (USoAC),
in fulfilling the requirements of financial standards for distribution stated in this code.
(2) Anything of the financial standard of distribution is contradictory to the provisions/ procedures of the
USoAC, the provisions/system of the later shall prevail.

CHAPTER 18

MISCELLANEOUS

283. Power to remove difficulties.- If any difficulty arises in giving effect to any of the
provisions of these regulations, the matter may be referred to the Commission which may, after
consultation with the parties concerned therewith, pass any general or special order, not
inconsistent with the provisions of the Act, which appears to it to be necessary or expedient, for
the purpose of removing such difficulty.

284. Power of the distribution licensee relating to its business of supplying electricity.-
Any distribution licensees may frame and adopt any procedure or practice relating to supply of
electricity, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Act, any other enactment for the time
being in force, the terms and conditions of the license and the provisions of this Code, with the
aim of providing a more consumer-friendly services:
Provided that the procedure or practice so framed and adopted shall have effect subject to prior
approval in writing of the Commission.

285. Overriding effect of other laws.- Nothing contained in this Code shall have effect
in so far as it is inconsistent with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 1910 (Act No. I  of
1910), any other Act, for the time being in force, relating to electricity and the rules and
regulations made thereunder, and in such a case the relevant provisions of this Code shall be
deemed to have been modified accordingly.

286. Mode of submission of data and their confidentiality.- (1) Submission of data
under this Code shall be in an electronic format or in writing or in any other suitable format
agreed upon by the parties concerned.
(2) All data submitted to the distribution licensee under this Code shall be treated as
confidential and shall not be released without the written consent of the party which submitted
them. These data include, but are not limited to, demand forecast, metered data and generating
unit characteristics.
(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in sub-regulation (2), the aggregate data may be
released for such planning and evaluation of distribution system reliability and security as may
be specified by the Commission.

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 287. Service of notice.- (1) Where any provision has been made in this Code for service of
notice on the consumer or any other entity, such service shall be effected by despatching the
notice to him or it by either hand delivery or registered post or e-mail followed by written
communication or telex or facsimile transfer. In case of an individual consumer, service on the
consumer’s spouse or his representative and, in case of a firm, company or corporation, service
on the Managing Director, Director, Principal Officer or an authorized person of such entity
shall be sufficient.
(2) Where a consumer or any person, referred to in sub-regulation (1), refuses or avoids receiving notice, the notice may be affixed at a conspicuous
place of the premises of such consumer or person, as the case may be, in the presence of two witnesses and an identifier and in such case an
endorsement shall be made to that effect on the copy of the notice. Such service by affixture shall be deemed to be sufficient service.

288. Non-compliance with the Code.- (1) All users are required to comply with the provisions
of this Code. Where any person to whom these provisions apply finds himself unable to comply
with any such provision, the matter shall promptly be referred to the distribution licensee and/or
the Commission, as the case may be, indicating the difficulty in complying with such provision.
The distribution licensee or the Commission, as the case may be, may, after considering the
reasonableness of the cause, allow relaxation of such provision for such period as it may
consider appropriate. Any continued non-compliance by a user, without reasonable grounds,
shall attract provisions of this Code for non-compliance, which may include restriction or
disconnection from the distribution licensee’s distribution system or such other action as
provided in this Code.
(2) Where non-compliance with this Code by any person or distribution licensee has occurred or
is likely to occur due to any direction issued by the Government in accordance with section 24 of
the Act, the Commission shall publish such direction on the Commission’s website and in the
national daily newspapers and shall note that non-compliance has been caused by the direction
issued by the Government.

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 Annexure-1

Load data for demand of 5 MW or above to be

furnished by the user/consumer
[see regulation 21 (5)]

Name and address of user/consumer:

S. No Description Details

1. Type of load (State whether steel melting furnace

loads, rolling mills, traction loads, other industrial
loads, pumping loads, etc.)
2. Maximum demand (kVA) and

annual energy requirement in kWh

3. Year/Years by which full/part

supply is required

4. Location of load (Furnish location map to scale, indicate

details of consumer category/ capacity,
nearest Railway Station, and nearest EHV substation) 5. Rated voltage at which supply
is
required. Whether single phase or three-phase
supply required

6. Type of supply Normal/ Alternate/ Dedicated

(specify details)
7. Description of equipment

A. Motors:
State purpose and number of
installations, voltage and kW rating,
starting current, type of motors,
types of drives and control
arrangements.

B. Heating :
Type and kW rating

C. Furnace :
Type, furnace transformer capacity and
voltage ratio
D. Electrolysis :
Purpose, kVA capacity

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 E. Lighting : kW demand

8. Sensitivity of demand to
fluctuations in voltage and frequency
of supply at the time of peak demand
(give details)

9. Voltage sensitivity MW/kV

MVAr/kV

10. Frequency sensitivity MW/Hz

MVAr/Hz

11. Phase unbalance imposed on system:

Maximum (%)

Average (%)

12. Maximum harmonic content

imposed (furnish details of devices
included with the system for the
suppression of harmonics, also
furnish the harmonic currents of
different orders drawn by each device
without filters)

13. Details of any loads, which may

cause demand fluctuations of greater
than 10 MW at the point of
connection, including voltage dips
(percentage) lasting for 5 seconds
and more. (give details)

Signature of the user/consumer

Annexure-2

System data to be provided to the intending user/consumer with

contract demand of 5MW or above

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 [see regulation 21 (5)]

1. 33 kV and above distribution line data relevant to the location where connection has been sought/is feasible to provide.
2. Details of metering system and protection system proposed.
3. Fault levels at which the consumer should design his equipment.
4. Fault clearance time for consumer's switch gear.
5. Substation fault level.

Signature on behalf of the distribution

licensee with name and designation

Annexure-3

System data of the whole of distribution licensee’s area of supply

[see regulation 21 (5)]

1. Topological map of Bangladesh marking boundaries of area of supply of the distribution licensee.
2. Distribution map of the distribution licensee drawn to scale of not less than 1 cm to 2.5 km showing
the existing 11 kV and 33 kV lines and substations within the area of supply. Lines and substations
under construction or planned for the next five years shall be shown in dotted lines.
3. Single line diagram of the distribution system showing line length, conductor sizes, substation
capacity, capacitor sizes with locations of auto-recloser/Kiosks/Breakers, etc.
4. Details of metering and relaying at 33/11 kV substations.
5. Details of grid substations at the point of interconnections as follows:
(a) MVA capacity and voltage;

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 (b) Number of transformers, capacity of each transformer, voltage ranges of taps;
(c) Fault level at substation busbars;
(d) Bus impendence;
(e) Substation layout diagram.
6. Draw at interconnection points: maximum and minimum MW drawn during last six months from
each interconnection with the transmission system or with other distribution licensees.

Signature on behalf of the distribution

licensee with name and designation
Annexure-4

Embedded Generator Unit-Wise Data

[see regulation 20 (2)]

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120
Signature on behalf of the Generating
Company with name and designation
Annexure-5

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 Site Responsibility Schedule
[see regulation 31 (2)]

Name of Substation/Location :

Site Owner :

Name of Co-Ordination Officer of the Site :

Telephone No. :

Fax No. :

Signatures:

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 ___________________________
Plant Owner

___________________________ _____________________________
Safety Responsibility Officer Control Responsibility Officer

___________________________ _____________________________
Operation Responsibility Officer Maintenance Responsibility Officer

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 Annexure-6

Essential Loads And Priority of Restoration

[see regulation 43 (2) (a) (iii)]

Signature on behalf of the distribution licensee

with name and designation

Annexure-7

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 Form For Reporting Operational Events/Incidents
[see regulation 53 (1)]

Name of the reporting organization:

Date and time of reporting the event/incident
[

1. Date and time of incident

2. Location of incident (Name of Substation/Line, etc.)

3. Description of incident

4. System parameters before the incident

(voltage, frequency, flows, generation, etc.)

5. Failure of protection at EHV GSS, if any, and relay indications

6. Damage to equipment

7. Supplies interrupted and duration, if applicable

8. Amount of generation lost, if applicable 9. Possibility of alternate supply arrangement

10. Estimated time of return to service

11. Cause of incident

12. Any other relevant information and remedial action taken

13. Recommendations for future improvement/non-

repetition of incident

Signature of the reporting officer

with name, designation and address
Annexure-8

Form For Reporting Electrical Accidents

[see regulation 54]

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 (To be furnished by Shift-in-Charge of the concerned utility where accident occurred)

1. Date and time of accident

2. Place of accident

(Village/ Locality/Area, Thana and District)

3. System and voltage of supply

(Whether EHV/ HV/ MV/ LV line, substation/

generating station/ consumer’s installations/ service
lines/ other installations)

4. Designation of the Officer-in-charge (in whose jurisdiction the accident occurred)

5. Name of owner/user of energy in whose premises the accident occurred.

6. Details of victim(s)

(a) Human

(b) Animal

7. In case the victim(s) is/are employee(s):

(a) designation of such person(s)
(b) brief description of the job undertaken, if any.
(c) Whether such person/ persons was/ were allowed to
work on the job.

8. In case the victim(s) is/are employee(s) of a licensed contractor:

(a) Did the victim(s) possess any electric workman’s
permits(s), supervisor’s certificate of competency
issued under the Electricity Rules, 1937? If yes give
number and date of issue and the name of issuing
authority
(b) Name and designation of the person who assigned
the duties of the victim(s)

9. In case of accident in the distribution licensee’s system, was the Permit To Work (PTW) taken?

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10 Describe fully the nature and extent of injuries,
e.g. fatal/ disablement (permanent or temporary)
of any portion of the body or burns or other
injuries.
In case of fatal accident, was the post mortem performed?

11 Detailed causes leading to the accident (To be

given in a separate sheet annexed to this form)

12 Action taken regarding first-aid, medical

attendance, etc. immediately after the occurrence
of the accident (give details)

13 Whether the District Magistrate and Police Station

concerned have been notified of the accident (if so,
give details)

14 Steps taken to preserve the evidence in

connection with accident to the extent possible.

15 Names and designation(s) of the person(s)

assisting, supervising the person(s) killed or
injured.

16 What safety equipments were given to and

used by the person(s) who met with this accident
(e.g. rubber gloves, rubber mats, safety belts and
ladders etc.)?
17 Whether isolating switches and other
sectionalizing devices were employed to deaden
the section for working on the same? Whether
working section was earthed at the site of work?

18 Whether the work on live lines was undertaken

by authorized person(s)?

If so, the name and designation of such person(s)

19 Whether the artificial resuscitation treatment work

on live lines was undertaken by authorized
person(s)?
If yes, how long was it continued before its abandonment?

20 Names and designations of persons present at and

witnessed the accident.

21 Any other information/remarks.

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Place : ______________ Signature : _______________________

Time : ______________ Name : _______________________

Date : ______________ Designation :_______________________

Address : _______________________

Annexure-9

Form-1

Electricity Supply Agreement Form

[see regulation 114 (1) and 115]

Name of the Electricity Utility

Electricity Supply Division/Unit

Address:…………......Tel:…………........Fax/E-mail:……………......

Electricity Supply Agreement

This agreement is executed on.......……day…..…....month....……....year between

............................................................... Name of the Electric Distribution Licensee , hereinafter termed as
the Licensee,

And

Mr./Mrs./Messer’s :
…………………………………………………………………………
Father/Husband’s Name :
…………………………………………………………………………
Address :
………………………………………………………………………… hereinafter
termed as the Consumer.
The distribution licensee shall supply and sale a maximum of……… kW of electric energy for
Consumer’s use under ...... category in the premises mentioned in annexure-A attached with this
agreement. The Consumer shall abide by the following terms and conditions for purchase and
use electricity from the Licensee.

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1. Type of Service:
(a) The supply shall be Alternating Current (A.C), ……Volts, …… Phase, …
Wires and 50 Hertz.
(b) The Consumer shall not use electricity supplied under this agreement for any other
purpose except as mentioned herein and shall not sale the electricity to other
consumers.
(c) The Consumer shall arrange full security to protect installed energy meters and
its seal.

2. Electric Bill Payment:

(a) The Consumer shall be bound to comply with the distribution licensee’s Conditions of
Supply and pay regularly the bill for used electricity at the Tariff in force from time to
time.
(b) The Consumer shall pay bills regularly to the banks (as indicated in the bills)
within the stipulated time otherwise late payment surcharge/ fee shall be imposed
at the prevailing rates.
(c) If the Consumer fails to pay electricity bill for 2(two) consecutive months, the
service connection shall be liable to disconnection. Arrear bills plus reconnection
and disconnection fees shall be charged for reconnection.

3. Accessibility to Premises:
The Consumer shall allow the distribution licensee’s Inspector free access to
his/her premises to conduct meter check, serve electricity bills, survey, estimate,
inspection and test, restore or disconnect supply.

4. Consistency of Electricity Supply:

The distribution licensee shall give utmost effort to supply continuous and
reliable electricity to the Consumer, but if the supply is disrupted due to
natural calamity, government’s instruction, load shedding, employee’s strike,
accident, right of way and maintenance of network system, and the Consumer
incurs thereby any loss the distribution licensee shall not be liable therefor and
the Consumer shall not be entitled to claim any thing for that.

5. Peak-Load hours:
The Consumer shall comply with the restrictions of using electricity during peak load
hours imposed by the distribution licensee. Period during 17:00 hrs to 23:00 hrs in
the evening will be considered as peak load hours. During this period the Consumer
shall comply with the lawful instructions of the distribution licensee in using of
electricity in mill/factory/workshop/pumps/ welding machine, otherwise the
distribution licensee will take appropriate measures as authorized in the distribution
licensee.

6. Power Factor:
The Consumer shall maintain Power factor (P.F) near to unity (1.0). If the average
Power factor in any billing period applicable category of consumers falls below the

129
 limit set by BERC, penalty shall be imposed as per approved rates and methods. The
consumer shall continue to pay the penalty until improvement of Power factor has
been achieved to the value as mentioned above.

7. Security Deposit:
Service connection facilities will be installed only when a sum of Tk. …… (in word) is
deposited as security (non refundable).

8. Successor and Liability:

This agreement shall be equally applicable for both party’s successor and legal representative and
shall enjoy the benefits as well as bear the liabilities.

9. Term of Agreement:
This agreement shall come into force on the date of signing and both parties shall
equally honor and comply all the terms and conditions of the agreement. The
Consumer may terminate this agreement by serving 3 (Three) months written notice.
Similarly, the Licensee may terminate this agreement on violation of terms of this
agreement by the Consumer.
Upon agreed all the terms and conditions as stated above both parties have signed and executed this
agreement from the date as mentioned above.

Signature:………………….. Signature:…………………..

(For Licensee) (For Consumer)

Designation:…………………… Designation:………………....

Address:……………………. Address:……………………...

……………………..................... .................................................

...................................................... ...............................................

(Office Seal) (Office Seal)

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Witness: Witness:
Annexure-10

Form–2

Form of Requisition for 230/400 V Connection

[see regulation 114 (1) and 115]

Name of the Electricity Utility

Commercial Division/Office

Address:…………..........Tel:…………........Fax/E-mail:……………..........

Requisition Date:.......................
No.:……………………

Name of Applicant Contact

Tele
Father / Husband’s
Name
Type of Premise and Address where supply is required
Space For Official Use (Please Put tick mark in the item applicable box)
Residential Theatre Address where supply is required
Registration Fee Office Educational
Receipt No. Factory/Ind Club/
Charitable
……………………
Tasks Initials Shop Agri Pumps
and
Date Hospital Others Pole No: Transformer No:

Site Visit Date by which supply is Electricity Bill

required No.
Meter No. on Service Installation No.
Tech Study

(Please Produce one recent bill for Inspection)

Estimate Landlord/Landlady’s
Name
Address

Executive
Order

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Name: Address: Tele:

Sl. Des. of kW Sl. Des. of kW Sl. Des. of kW Total sum kW

Load Load Load Load
Particulars (a) Lamps + (c) TV/ (e) Pump/
Fan Computer Motor
(b) Fridge (d) A.C + (f) Others
Iron
Declaration: I hereby request you to supply electricity to the premises mentioned above occupied by
me and situated within your licensed area of supply within such period as the Regulator may allow. I
further request you to supply me with necessary meters on hire. If called upon to do so, I agree to give
you security for the price of the meters.
I also agree to abide by your conditions of supply and pay for the electricity at the tariffs in force from
time to time.
I agree to use the energy for the purpose mentioned hereinabove. If at any time energy supplied to me
wholly or any part thereof is used by me for any other purpose for which higher rate of charge is in
force, I shall be liable to be charged for the whole of the energy registered as consumed at such higher
rate.

Place……………… Date………… Signature of Applicant:.........................

Note: Incorrect or incomplete information on this form may lead to delay or even cancellation of this
requisition. In case of difficulty in filling this form contact Consumers Services Division.

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Location of Meter: Should be easily accessible

By order of the Commission,

Secretary,
Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission.

133