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The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has proposed ambitious new targets to achieve 43.33% of Karnataka’s energy consumption from renewable sources by 2029-30. The draft notification, currently open for stakeholder comments until November 27, 2024, outlines a phased increase in Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO) for distribution licensees, captive consumers, and open access consumers. Starting with a 29.91% target for 2024-25, the RPO plan includes specific sub-targets for wind, hydro, distributed, and other renewables. Distribution licensees must source a minimum share of their energy from non-fossil sources, with compliance requirements varying by category. The plan also stipulates that cooperative entities like Hukkeri Rural Electric Co-operative Society and other deemed licensees comply via their electricity suppliers if the supplier meets RPO targets. If the suppliers fall short, the cooperative is responsible for meeting the RPO itself. For captive and open access consumers, the regulation mandates sourcing part of their power from renewable sources. Those with multiple units in Karnataka under one legal entity can meet the RPO collectively across all units. These measures align with India’s national goals for non-fossil energy consumption, aiming to accelerate Karnataka's transition to clean energy. KERC has recently introduced additional regulations, including peer-to-peer solar energy transactions and balancing generation with consumption to reduce deviations. If approved, the proposal will reinforce Karnataka's position as a leader in renewable energy. (Mercom)