Save Karnataka's MSMEs and electrical contractors & Consumers
The Issue
Karnataka's vibrant community of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), along with dedicated electrical contractors, stand at a critical juncture. The latest Draft Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR 2026) proposed by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) threatens to impose heavy burdens that could stifle the growth and operational efficiency of these vital sectors, which are the backbone of our state’s economy.
For the entrepreneurs and skilled workers who power Karnataka, compliance with overly burdensome regulations could mean increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and potential business failure. Currently, the draft mandates a slew of administrative and operational procedures that many MSMEs and electrical contractors are ill-equipped to manage. These new provisions threaten not only the stability of existing enterprises but also the livelihoods of thousands of local workers and their families.
Moreover, the new regulations fail to consider the safety and well-being of consumers and workers. While compliance is necessary for electrical safety and reliability, the Draft ESR 2026 prioritizes red tape over practical and actionable safety measures, neglecting vital reforms in supply quality and accident prevention.
To combat these issues, we propose the following:
1. Simplification of compliance procedures: Streamline processes to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and allow MSMEs to focus energy and resources on business development and innovation.
2. Protection for existing consumers: Ensure that regulations enhance rather than hinder the access to safe, affordable, and reliable electricity supplies.
3. Fair opportunities for licensed electrical contractors: Develop legislation that supports operational growth without unfair burdens, providing a fair playing field to compete and thrive.
The time to act is now. Many businesses and skilled professionals in Karnataka are asking to be heard. These proposed changes not only harm our economic growth but also threaten our community's well-being. Stand with us to urge the KERC to modify the Draft ESR 2026 to reflect a more balanced approach that promotes both safety and economic vitality.
Sign this petition to join our call to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to adopt a regulatory framework that truly supports the prosperity and safety of all stakeholders involved in our electricity supply network.
Yes. I recommend making this a public petition for consumers, industries, MSMEs, electrical contractors and the general public, rather than limiting it only to contractors.
The petition should focus on safe electricity supply + reduction of unnecessary compliance + protection of existing consumers + fair opportunity for licensed electrical contractors.
PUBLIC PETITION TO KERC
SAVE KARNATAKA'S MSMEs & ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS – OBJECT TO BURDENSOME PROVISIONS IN DRAFT ESR 2026
Petition to:
The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
We, the undersigned citizens, consumers, industrialists, MSMEs, business owners, electrical contractors, professionals and residents of Karnataka, respectfully request the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to reconsider certain provisions of the proposed Karnataka Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR), 2026.
Electricity is an essential service and a fundamental input for Karnataka's industries, MSMEs, businesses and households.
We fully support electrical safety and regulatory compliance.
However, the proposed Regulations should not create unnecessary procedures, documentation, delays or costs for existing consumers and should not unnecessarily dilute the role of qualified Licensed Electrical Contractors.
OUR PRINCIPAL CONCERNS
1. PROTECT EXISTING ELECTRICITY CONNECTIONS
An existing consumer with an established electricity connection, RR number and meter should not automatically be treated as a new applicant merely because the supply has been disconnected and restoration/reconnection is sought.
The Draft Regulations themselves recognise reconnection/restoration of supply as a separate matter. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
We request a clear and simple procedure for restoration of existing connections.
2. DO NOT INSIST ON OC/CC FOR EVERY EXISTING INDUSTRIAL PREMISES
Existing factories and industrial sheds should not be subjected to documentation meant for a fresh electricity connection to a newly constructed building, particularly where:
there is no new construction;
there is no additional built-up area;
the existing electrical installation remains identifiable; and
only reconnection, restoration, meter replacement or routine electrical modification is involved.
The Draft already recognises an exception relating to additional load where there is no additional built-up area.
We request that this principle be clearly extended to appropriate existing industrial installations.
3. PROTECT ELECTRICAL SAFETY AND THE ROLE OF LICENSED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
We are concerned about provisions allowing owner self-certification for LT installations up to 150 kW.
The Draft provides for owner inspection/testing/self-certification in specified circumstances. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
We believe that where new electrical wiring, alteration, extension or modification has actually been carried out, such work should be executed and certified by an appropriately Licensed Electrical Contractor, wherever required under law.
Electrical safety should never be compromised in the name of simplification.
4. DO NOT PENALISE LICENSED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Licensed Electrical Contractors invest in:
skilled manpower;
testing equipment;
technical expertise;
licences and statutory compliance;
safety equipment; and
professional responsibility.
Their role should not be unnecessarily diluted by permitting technically specialised electrical work to be self-certified by persons without appropriate professional competence.
At the same time, contractors should not be held liable for alterations subsequently carried out by consumers or third parties.
5. REPAIR OF EXISTING INDUSTRIAL SHEDS SHOULD NOT BECOME "NEW CONSTRUCTION"
Thousands of Karnataka industries operate from:
M.S. sheds;
PEB structures;
old industrial buildings;
factory sheds; and
other existing industrial premises.
Replacement of roofing sheets, structural strengthening, machinery changes and ordinary repairs should not automatically result in fresh electricity-connection requirements where there is no additional built-up area.
The Draft itself distinguishes demolition/reconstruction from addition/alteration of an existing building. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
6. TIME-BOUND ELECTRICITY SERVICES
Delay in electricity restoration can stop an entire manufacturing unit.
It can cause:
production losses;
machinery downtime;
loss of wages;
customer delivery failures;
financial losses; and
damage to MSMEs.
We therefore request strict time limits for reconnection, restoration, meter replacement and routine consumer services where no network augmentation is required.
7. WRITTEN REASONS FOR REJECTION OR DELAY
Consumers should not be told verbally:
"Bring OC."
"Bring CC."
"Apply for a new connection."
If a document is mandatory, the consumer should be given the specific legal/regulatory provision requiring it.
The Draft already provides that decisions of the Licensee shall be in writing. We request that the final Regulations make such decisions properly reasoned and transparent.
8. NO REPEATED DOCUMENTATION
BESCOM/ESCOMs already possess consumer records including:
RR number;
account details;
meter history;
sanctioned load;
billing history;
previous service records.
Consumers should not be repeatedly asked to submit documents already available with the Licensee.
OUR DEMANDS
We therefore respectfully request KERC to:
✅ 1.
Create a simple separate procedure for reconnection/restoration of existing electricity connections.
✅ 2.
Ensure that existing consumers are not unnecessarily treated as fresh applicants.
✅ 3.
Do not mechanically insist upon OC/CC for restoration/reconnection of existing installations where such documents are not legally applicable.
✅ 4.
Require BESCOM/ESCOMs to give the specific statutory/regulatory basis in writing whenever OC/CC or any other document is demanded.
✅ 5.
Protect the role of Licensed Electrical Contractors in electrical installation work.
✅ 6.
Reconsider owner self-certification where actual electrical installation work has been newly carried out or substantially altered.
✅ 7.
Ensure that repair, maintenance and strengthening of existing industrial sheds without additional built-up area does not automatically trigger fresh-connection requirements.
✅ 8.
Introduce time-bound reconnection/restoration of electricity supply.
✅ 9.
Prevent unlicensed persons from undertaking electrical works that legally require a licence.
✅ 10.
Ensure that an electrical contractor is responsible only for work actually executed and certified by that contractor.
✅ 11.
Introduce uniform procedures and checklists across all ESCOMs.
✅ 12.
Provide a transparent online system for application status, deficiencies, inspection and restoration.
OUR MESSAGE TO KERC
WE ARE NOT AGAINST REGULATION.
WE ARE NOT AGAINST ELECTRICAL SAFETY.
WE ARE AGAINST UNNECESSARY RED TAPE, DUPLICATION, DELAY AND UNFAIR COMPLIANCE BURDEN.
Karnataka's industries and MSMEs need reliable electricity, simple procedures and predictable service.
At the same time, Karnataka needs properly qualified electrical professionals to ensure electrical safety.
We therefore respectfully request the Hon'ble KERC to review the Draft ESR 2026 in consultation with industries, MSMEs, consumers and Licensed Electrical Contractors before finalising the Regulations.
✍️ SIGN THE PETITION
I support this petition requesting KERC to protect electricity consumers, MSMEs, industries and Licensed Electrical Contractors and to introduce simple, transparent, safe and time-bound electricity-supply procedures.
Suggested online signature fields:
Name: __________________________
City/District: ____________________
State: Karnataka
Category:
☐ General Public
☐ Industrialist
☐ MSME
☐ Business Owner
☐ Electrical Contractor
☐ Engineer/Professional
☐ Consumer
☐ Other
Email: __________________________
Mobile (optional): _______________
☐ I agree to add my name to this petition.
Suggested petition title for Change.org
"Protect Karnataka Industries, MSMEs & Electrical Contractors – Amend Draft ESR 2026"
Short description for sharing on WhatsApp
IMPORTANT PUBLIC PETITION – KARNATAKA
KERC has proposed the Draft Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR), 2026.
We support electrical safety, but we request KERC to prevent unnecessary OC/CC requirements for existing electricity installations, simplify reconnection/restoration, protect MSMEs from delays and compliance burden, and preserve the professional role of Licensed Electrical Contractors.
Please sign and support this public petition.
One signature = one voice for simpler, safer and transparent electricity services in Karnataka.
This petition can be circulated through PIA, KASSIA, FKCCI, electrical contractors' groups, industrial-area WhatsApp groups and the general public. The Draft specifically contemplates self-execution through Licensed Electrical Contractors and imposes responsibilities around testing, certification and safety, so those points can be highlighted without making the petition appear anti-regulation. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
If you want, I can also prepare a very powerful 1-page petition specifically designed for a QR code/WhatsApp campaign, with a short heading and "SIGN HERE" format so thousands of people can sign online.
96
The Issue
Karnataka's vibrant community of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), along with dedicated electrical contractors, stand at a critical juncture. The latest Draft Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR 2026) proposed by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) threatens to impose heavy burdens that could stifle the growth and operational efficiency of these vital sectors, which are the backbone of our state’s economy.
For the entrepreneurs and skilled workers who power Karnataka, compliance with overly burdensome regulations could mean increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and potential business failure. Currently, the draft mandates a slew of administrative and operational procedures that many MSMEs and electrical contractors are ill-equipped to manage. These new provisions threaten not only the stability of existing enterprises but also the livelihoods of thousands of local workers and their families.
Moreover, the new regulations fail to consider the safety and well-being of consumers and workers. While compliance is necessary for electrical safety and reliability, the Draft ESR 2026 prioritizes red tape over practical and actionable safety measures, neglecting vital reforms in supply quality and accident prevention.
To combat these issues, we propose the following:
1. Simplification of compliance procedures: Streamline processes to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and allow MSMEs to focus energy and resources on business development and innovation.
2. Protection for existing consumers: Ensure that regulations enhance rather than hinder the access to safe, affordable, and reliable electricity supplies.
3. Fair opportunities for licensed electrical contractors: Develop legislation that supports operational growth without unfair burdens, providing a fair playing field to compete and thrive.
The time to act is now. Many businesses and skilled professionals in Karnataka are asking to be heard. These proposed changes not only harm our economic growth but also threaten our community's well-being. Stand with us to urge the KERC to modify the Draft ESR 2026 to reflect a more balanced approach that promotes both safety and economic vitality.
Sign this petition to join our call to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to adopt a regulatory framework that truly supports the prosperity and safety of all stakeholders involved in our electricity supply network.
Yes. I recommend making this a public petition for consumers, industries, MSMEs, electrical contractors and the general public, rather than limiting it only to contractors.
The petition should focus on safe electricity supply + reduction of unnecessary compliance + protection of existing consumers + fair opportunity for licensed electrical contractors.
PUBLIC PETITION TO KERC
SAVE KARNATAKA'S MSMEs & ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS – OBJECT TO BURDENSOME PROVISIONS IN DRAFT ESR 2026
Petition to:
The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
We, the undersigned citizens, consumers, industrialists, MSMEs, business owners, electrical contractors, professionals and residents of Karnataka, respectfully request the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to reconsider certain provisions of the proposed Karnataka Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR), 2026.
Electricity is an essential service and a fundamental input for Karnataka's industries, MSMEs, businesses and households.
We fully support electrical safety and regulatory compliance.
However, the proposed Regulations should not create unnecessary procedures, documentation, delays or costs for existing consumers and should not unnecessarily dilute the role of qualified Licensed Electrical Contractors.
OUR PRINCIPAL CONCERNS
1. PROTECT EXISTING ELECTRICITY CONNECTIONS
An existing consumer with an established electricity connection, RR number and meter should not automatically be treated as a new applicant merely because the supply has been disconnected and restoration/reconnection is sought.
The Draft Regulations themselves recognise reconnection/restoration of supply as a separate matter. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
We request a clear and simple procedure for restoration of existing connections.
2. DO NOT INSIST ON OC/CC FOR EVERY EXISTING INDUSTRIAL PREMISES
Existing factories and industrial sheds should not be subjected to documentation meant for a fresh electricity connection to a newly constructed building, particularly where:
there is no new construction;
there is no additional built-up area;
the existing electrical installation remains identifiable; and
only reconnection, restoration, meter replacement or routine electrical modification is involved.
The Draft already recognises an exception relating to additional load where there is no additional built-up area.
We request that this principle be clearly extended to appropriate existing industrial installations.
3. PROTECT ELECTRICAL SAFETY AND THE ROLE OF LICENSED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
We are concerned about provisions allowing owner self-certification for LT installations up to 150 kW.
The Draft provides for owner inspection/testing/self-certification in specified circumstances. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
We believe that where new electrical wiring, alteration, extension or modification has actually been carried out, such work should be executed and certified by an appropriately Licensed Electrical Contractor, wherever required under law.
Electrical safety should never be compromised in the name of simplification.
4. DO NOT PENALISE LICENSED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Licensed Electrical Contractors invest in:
skilled manpower;
testing equipment;
technical expertise;
licences and statutory compliance;
safety equipment; and
professional responsibility.
Their role should not be unnecessarily diluted by permitting technically specialised electrical work to be self-certified by persons without appropriate professional competence.
At the same time, contractors should not be held liable for alterations subsequently carried out by consumers or third parties.
5. REPAIR OF EXISTING INDUSTRIAL SHEDS SHOULD NOT BECOME "NEW CONSTRUCTION"
Thousands of Karnataka industries operate from:
M.S. sheds;
PEB structures;
old industrial buildings;
factory sheds; and
other existing industrial premises.
Replacement of roofing sheets, structural strengthening, machinery changes and ordinary repairs should not automatically result in fresh electricity-connection requirements where there is no additional built-up area.
The Draft itself distinguishes demolition/reconstruction from addition/alteration of an existing building. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
6. TIME-BOUND ELECTRICITY SERVICES
Delay in electricity restoration can stop an entire manufacturing unit.
It can cause:
production losses;
machinery downtime;
loss of wages;
customer delivery failures;
financial losses; and
damage to MSMEs.
We therefore request strict time limits for reconnection, restoration, meter replacement and routine consumer services where no network augmentation is required.
7. WRITTEN REASONS FOR REJECTION OR DELAY
Consumers should not be told verbally:
"Bring OC."
"Bring CC."
"Apply for a new connection."
If a document is mandatory, the consumer should be given the specific legal/regulatory provision requiring it.
The Draft already provides that decisions of the Licensee shall be in writing. We request that the final Regulations make such decisions properly reasoned and transparent.
8. NO REPEATED DOCUMENTATION
BESCOM/ESCOMs already possess consumer records including:
RR number;
account details;
meter history;
sanctioned load;
billing history;
previous service records.
Consumers should not be repeatedly asked to submit documents already available with the Licensee.
OUR DEMANDS
We therefore respectfully request KERC to:
✅ 1.
Create a simple separate procedure for reconnection/restoration of existing electricity connections.
✅ 2.
Ensure that existing consumers are not unnecessarily treated as fresh applicants.
✅ 3.
Do not mechanically insist upon OC/CC for restoration/reconnection of existing installations where such documents are not legally applicable.
✅ 4.
Require BESCOM/ESCOMs to give the specific statutory/regulatory basis in writing whenever OC/CC or any other document is demanded.
✅ 5.
Protect the role of Licensed Electrical Contractors in electrical installation work.
✅ 6.
Reconsider owner self-certification where actual electrical installation work has been newly carried out or substantially altered.
✅ 7.
Ensure that repair, maintenance and strengthening of existing industrial sheds without additional built-up area does not automatically trigger fresh-connection requirements.
✅ 8.
Introduce time-bound reconnection/restoration of electricity supply.
✅ 9.
Prevent unlicensed persons from undertaking electrical works that legally require a licence.
✅ 10.
Ensure that an electrical contractor is responsible only for work actually executed and certified by that contractor.
✅ 11.
Introduce uniform procedures and checklists across all ESCOMs.
✅ 12.
Provide a transparent online system for application status, deficiencies, inspection and restoration.
OUR MESSAGE TO KERC
WE ARE NOT AGAINST REGULATION.
WE ARE NOT AGAINST ELECTRICAL SAFETY.
WE ARE AGAINST UNNECESSARY RED TAPE, DUPLICATION, DELAY AND UNFAIR COMPLIANCE BURDEN.
Karnataka's industries and MSMEs need reliable electricity, simple procedures and predictable service.
At the same time, Karnataka needs properly qualified electrical professionals to ensure electrical safety.
We therefore respectfully request the Hon'ble KERC to review the Draft ESR 2026 in consultation with industries, MSMEs, consumers and Licensed Electrical Contractors before finalising the Regulations.
✍️ SIGN THE PETITION
I support this petition requesting KERC to protect electricity consumers, MSMEs, industries and Licensed Electrical Contractors and to introduce simple, transparent, safe and time-bound electricity-supply procedures.
Suggested online signature fields:
Name: __________________________
City/District: ____________________
State: Karnataka
Category:
☐ General Public
☐ Industrialist
☐ MSME
☐ Business Owner
☐ Electrical Contractor
☐ Engineer/Professional
☐ Consumer
☐ Other
Email: __________________________
Mobile (optional): _______________
☐ I agree to add my name to this petition.
Suggested petition title for Change.org
"Protect Karnataka Industries, MSMEs & Electrical Contractors – Amend Draft ESR 2026"
Short description for sharing on WhatsApp
IMPORTANT PUBLIC PETITION – KARNATAKA
KERC has proposed the Draft Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR), 2026.
We support electrical safety, but we request KERC to prevent unnecessary OC/CC requirements for existing electricity installations, simplify reconnection/restoration, protect MSMEs from delays and compliance burden, and preserve the professional role of Licensed Electrical Contractors.
Please sign and support this public petition.
One signature = one voice for simpler, safer and transparent electricity services in Karnataka.
This petition can be circulated through PIA, KASSIA, FKCCI, electrical contractors' groups, industrial-area WhatsApp groups and the general public. The Draft specifically contemplates self-execution through Licensed Electrical Contractors and imposes responsibilities around testing, certification and safety, so those points can be highlighted without making the petition appear anti-regulation. �
Draft Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission Electricity Supply Regulations ESR - 2026.pdf
If you want, I can also prepare a very powerful 1-page petition specifically designed for a QR code/WhatsApp campaign, with a short heading and "SIGN HERE" format so thousands of people can sign online.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 1 September 2026