open access consumers

The government has permitted e-commerce providers to deliver food items and gadgets, expanding the scope of online retail services. Details on when the rules take effect and which platforms qualify have not yet been reported. The move is expected to widen consumer access to delivered goods and open new business opportunities for online sellers.

Tamil Nadu power utility TNPDCL has proposed a surcharge of Rs 0.63 per unit on electricity consumers who buy power through open access rather than from the utility directly. The proposal would raise costs for industrial and commercial users sourcing cheaper power from other suppliers, and will need approval from the state electricity regulatory commission.