Bombay High Court: MERC's Secret Tariff Changes Canceled

Here's the scoop: The Bombay High Court just canceled a big decision by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) that changed electricity prices without letting everyone have their say. Let's break it down.

What's the Big Deal?

MERC made some big changes to electricity prices that affected a lot of people, including solar power companies like Sunsure Solapark OD Two Private Limited and their customers. But here's the catch: they did it without listening to what everyone had to say first. That's a big no-no!

The Original Tariff Plan

Back in March 2025, MERC set up a plan for electricity prices that would last until 2030. They listened to everyone’s suggestions and complaints before making the decision. This plan included how solar energy could be saved and used, and it also categorized hotels under a specific price rate.

The Surprise Changes

In June 2025, MERC decided to change these prices. For example, they restricted when solar energy could be used and changed the price category for hotels, making it more expensive for them. They also approved a huge increase in spending on infrastructure, which could raise electricity costs for everyone.

Why the Court Said "Nope"

The court, led by Judges B. P. Colabawalla and Firdosh P. Pooniwalla, said MERC didn’t follow the rules. According to the law, when you make such big changes, you have to let affected parties have their say. MERC skipped this step, and the court wasn’t having it.

"The impugned review order has far-reaching implications on all stakeholders, including the consumers."

What Happens Next?

The court canceled MERC's surprise changes and told them to start over. This time, they must listen to everyone involved before making any decisions. Until then, the original plan from March 2025 stays in place.

Why It Matters

This decision is a big win for fairness and transparency. It ensures that everyone affected by such changes gets a chance to speak up. The court made it clear: no more secret changes!

This decision highlights the importance of following proper procedures and ensuring transparency in regulatory decisions. It's a reminder that everyone deserves a voice when big changes are on the table.