Chhattisgarh residents are set to pay more for electricity following a decision by the state’s regulatory body. The 1.8% increase translates to an additional 10-15 paise per unit for both domestic and commercial users. This is the first price hike under the current administration. During the Congress government’s tenure, there were two earlier increases. Domestic consumers will pay 10 to 20 paise more per unit. The domestic category will include homes in designated areas. Temporary residential connections will be charged 1.25 times the usual rate.
Commercial users will see a 25 paise per unit increase. Offset printers and printing presses have been reclassified. The tariff for commercial temporary connections will be 1.25 times the normal rate. Mobile towers in left-wing extremist-affected districts will receive a 10% discount on energy charges. Farmers will face a 50 paise per unit increase. The discount for non-subsidized agricultural pumps has been increased to 30%. Farmers can continue to use 100 watts for lights and fans. The commission approved an annual revenue requirement. The approved estimated electricity sale for the next fiscal year is 36,540 million units. The estimated revenue deficit is significantly lower than initially anticipated.
The process began with public hearings in June. The rate increase was decided after considering various viewpoints. The distribution company had proposed a 20% rate hike, citing losses due to line losses and theft.