The proposition to increase electricity rates in Bihar, potentially elevating them from 33 to 40 paise per unit effective April 1, 2024, has stirred widespread concern. Power supply companies have formally presented their tariff recommendations for the fiscal year 2024-25 to the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission. In response, the commission has called for public feedback and objections, fostering transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process.
Submission and Review Process:
On November 15, 2023, various entities, including supply, transmission, grid, and state load dispatch centers, submitted separate tariff petitions to the regulatory commission, advocating for a recalibration of electricity rates. The proposals hinge on the increased costs incurred by power companies in supplying electricity.
Public Participation:
In adherence to the commission’s directives, power supply companies have made the details of the proposed new tariff rates public. Citizens and businesses have been given the opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions regarding the potential tariff hike. Copies of the tariff petition, essential for comprehensive understanding, are available at the headquarters and all regional offices of the electricity companies, obtainable for a fee of ₹500.
Public Hearings Schedule:
To facilitate direct public engagement, the commission has organized a series of public hearings across five key cities, spanning from January 19 to February 2. The objective is to address queries, receive valuable insights, and consider objections from the diverse stakeholders in Bihar’s electricity consumer base.
1. January 19: Motihari, Eastern Champaran Circuit House Auditorium, 11:30 AM
2. January 22: Purnia, Circuit House Auditorium, 11:30 AM
3. January 24: Bihar Sharif, Nalanda Circuit House Auditorium, 11:30 AM
4. January 29: Sasaram, Rohtas Circuit House Auditorium, 11:30 AM
5. February 2: Patna, Regulatory Commission’s Court Room, Vidyut Bhavan 2, 11:30 AM
Proposed Tariff Changes:
The suggested modifications encompass a range of consumer categories. Here’s a glimpse of the proposed changes:
– Residential (up to 50 units): Current – ₹7.57, Proposed – ₹7.90
– Rural Domestic (up to 50 units): Current – ₹7.57, Proposed – ₹7.90
– Rural Domestic (above 50 units): Current – ₹8.11, Proposed – ₹8.47
– Urban Domestic (up to 100 units): Current – ₹7.57, Proposed – ₹7.90
– Urban Domestic (above 100 units): Current – ₹9.10, Proposed – ₹9.50
– Non-Domestic (Commercial) (up to 100 units):* Current – ₹7.94, Proposed – ₹8.29
– Non-Domestic (Commercial) (above 100 units):* Current – ₹8.36, Proposed – ₹8.73
– Street Light Service: Current – ₹9.18, Proposed – ₹9.58
– Irrigation and Allied Services: Current – ₹6.89, Proposed – ₹7.19
– High Tension Low Tension Connection: Current – ₹7.94, Proposed – ₹8.29
– High Tension General: Current – ₹8.13, Proposed – ₹8.49
The outcome of the public hearings and the subsequent decisions by the regulatory commission will significantly impact the electricity tariff landscape in Bihar for the upcoming fiscal year. As citizens and businesses actively participate in the consultation process, the hope is to strike a balance between the financial sustainability of power companies and the affordability of electricity for the consumers.
