Electricity Load Increase: How to Apply Online

If your electricity keeps tripping or your MCB frequently cuts off, your sanctioned load may be insufficient. Increasing your electricity load (also called load enhancement) is a straightforward process available online through most state DISCOMs.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with any government body. Information is sourced from official DISCOM portals.

When Should You Increase Your Electricity Load?

• Frequent MCB/fuse tripping — your appliances draw more than the sanctioned load
• Adding heavy appliances — AC, geyser, water motor, EV charger, or induction cooktop
• Commercial expansion — new machinery or equipment in shop/office
• Shifting from 1-phase to 3-phase supply

Understanding Sanctioned Load

Documents Required

• Identity proof — Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or PAN card
• Address proof — Electricity bill, property tax receipt, or registry
• Existing connection details — Consumer number / account number
• Ownership proof — Sale deed, allotment letter, or rent agreement with NOC from owner
• Wiring test report — From a licensed electrical contractor (for higher loads)
• Passport-size photograph

Step-by-Step Process: Online Application

Step 1: Visit Your DISCOM Portal

Go to your state DISCOM's official website. Major portals:

Step 2: Log In to Your Account

Log in using your consumer number and registered mobile number. If you don't have an online account, register first using your bill details.

Step 3: Select "Load Enhancement" or "Load Change"

Navigate to Services → Load Enhancement / Load Change → Apply for Load Increase.

Step 4: Enter New Load Requirement

Enter your desired new load (in kW). The system will show the additional security deposit required.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of required documents (identity proof, ownership proof, wiring test report if applicable).

Step 6: Pay Fees Online

Pay the processing fee and additional security deposit via net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.

Step 7: Track Application

Note down your application/request number. Track status on the same portal under Track Application.

Offline Process

1. Visit your nearest DISCOM subdivision office
2. Collect the load enhancement application form
3. Fill the form and attach required documents
4. Submit the form with the prescribed fee
5. A DISCOM official will inspect your premises
6. After approval, the meter will be upgraded/replaced
7. Revised bills will start from the date of load change

Fees and Charges

Note: Fees vary significantly by state and DISCOM. Check your specific DISCOM portal for exact charges.

Processing Time

• Online application approval: 7–15 working days
• Meter upgrade/replacement: 3–7 days after approval
• Total timeline: 10–21 working days

In some states like Delhi, the process can be completed within 7 days for simple load increases.

Important Tips

1. Check your current load on your electricity bill before applying — it's printed as "Sanctioned Load"
2. Get wiring upgraded before increasing load — old wiring with higher load is a fire hazard
3. Security deposit is refundable — you'll get it back (adjusted) when you surrender the connection
4. Load decrease is also possible — if you want to reduce bills, you can apply to decrease load too
5. Keep the acknowledgment — save the application number for tracking and future reference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sanctioned load and connected load?

Sanctioned load is the maximum power (in kW) approved by the DISCOM for your connection. Connected load is the total wattage of all appliances you have plugged in. Your connected load should not exceed your sanctioned load.

Can I increase load from 1-phase to 3-phase online?

Yes, most DISCOMs allow phase conversion applications online. However, this requires physical line work, so an inspection visit is mandatory.

How much does it cost to increase electricity load from 2 kW to 5 kW?

The additional security deposit would be for 3 kW (difference). At approximately ₹100-200 per kW, this would be ₹300-600 as deposit plus processing fees of ₹100-500. Total cost is typically ₹500-₹2,000 depending on your state.

Will my electricity tariff rate change after load increase?

For domestic consumers, the per-unit rate generally remains the same. However, if your load crosses certain thresholds (e.g., above 10 kW), you may move to a higher tariff slab in some states.

Can a tenant apply for load increase?

Yes, but you'll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner along with the rent agreement.

What happens if I use more load than sanctioned without applying?

Using load above your sanctioned limit can lead to penalties, disconnection, and back-billing. The DISCOM may charge you at commercial/penal rates for unauthorized excess load.

For help with paying your electricity bill, see our electricity bill payment guide. If you're considering solar panels to offset higher consumption, check our solar rooftop subsidy guide.