Open access power travels over two networks before it reaches you, and each charges a fee for carrying it. Together with a few small scheduling charges, these make up the grid fees on your landed cost.
Wheeling charge
The wheeling charge pays your DISCOM for using its local distribution network. It depends on the voltage you connect at: a higher voltage connection usually pays less. Karnataka’s published figure is ₹0.29 a unit.
Transmission charge
The transmission charge pays the state transmission company when the plant connects at transmission voltage. Plants that send power across state lines also pay interstate (ISTS) charges. The ISTS waiver for renewable projects has been phasing out since June 2025, so newer cross-state projects cost more to move.
SLDC and scheduling charges
The State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) schedules power on the grid and charges open access users for it. With other scheduling fees these are small, typically ₹0.05 to ₹0.30 a unit combined, but they still belong in your sum.
Losses
Some power is lost as heat on the way. States set a loss percentage, and you pay for the lost units at your PPA price, so a 5% loss on a ₹3.75 unit adds about ₹0.20.
A ruling worth knowing
In April 2025 Maharashtra’s commission barred MSEDCL from charging wheeling on open access power delivered only through the transmission network, and ordered refunds. Rulings like this can change your costs mid-contract.
Related: landed cost, open access, DISCOM.
Sources
Figures last checked on 26 September 2026.