Will Power Prices Increase in Chhattisgarh to Rs 7.02 per Unit?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Electricity tariffs in Chhattisgarh are increasing starting August.
- Domestic consumers will pay an additional 10-20 paise per unit.
- Commercial and agricultural users will face larger increases.
- The average billing rate is now Rs 7.02 per unit.
- Public feedback was considered before finalizing the new rates.
Raipur, July 11 (NationPress) The cost of electricity in Chhattisgarh is set to increase starting in August due to a newly issued tariff order by the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
The updated rates, announced on Friday, will impact consumers in domestic, commercial, and agricultural sectors throughout the state.
As per the tariff order for the financial year 2025–26, domestic consumers will face an increase of 10 to 20 paise per unit.
Commercial users will experience a rise of 25 paise per unit, while those using agricultural pumps will see an increase of 50 paise per unit.
The average billing rate has been set at Rs 7.02 per unit, marking an overall rise of 1.89 percent, according to the tariff order.
This adjustment comes in response to a proposal from the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), which reported an expected revenue loss of Rs 4,947 crore.
However, after evaluation, the commission only recognized Rs 523 crore as valid loss and sanctioned a lower Annual Revenue Requirement of Rs 25,636 crore, opposed to the company's request of Rs 28,397 crore.
The tariff revision process commenced on June 20, inviting public input.
A public hearing took place, where political members, including representatives from the Congress party, protested against the proposed increase.
Despite the opposition, the commission opted to proceed with the hike after considering feedback from consumers, farmers, and officials from the power company. The effects of the new rates will differ among consumer categories.
While BPL, domestic, and agricultural users will face a relatively smaller increase, commercial consumers are expected to shoulder a heavier load.
The commission has also introduced incentives and discounts for certain groups, including mobile towers in Naxal-affected regions and women-led self-help organizations.
With over 65 lakh consumers in the state, the revised tariff is forecasted to generate additional revenue to counter losses attributed to line inefficiencies and electricity theft. The new rates will be reflected in bills starting in August.