Consumers in Chhattisgarh will face higher electricity bills as a result of a recent decision by the state’s electricity regulator. The price increase, amounting to 1.8%, will lead to an additional charge of 10-15 paise per unit. This marks the first electricity rate adjustment under the current government. Previous administrations, including the Congress, had previously increased rates. Domestic consumers will see their bills increase by 10 to 20 paise per unit. Homes within specific development authority areas will now be categorized as domestic users. Temporary connections for residential purposes will be charged at a rate of 1.25 times the normal tariff.
Commercial consumers will experience a 25 paise per unit increase. Offset printers and printing presses have been reclassified. Commercial temporary connections will also be charged at a rate of 1.25 times the standard tariff. Mobile towers in districts affected by left-wing extremism will receive a 10% discount on energy charges. Agricultural consumers will see a 50 paise per unit increase in electricity rates. Non-subsidized agricultural pumps will have a 30% discount. The commission allows farmers to use up to 100 watts for lights and fans connected to their pumps. The Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission has reviewed revenue deficits and approved a revised annual revenue requirement. The commission has approved an estimated electricity sale of 36,540 million units for the upcoming fiscal year. The estimated revenue deficit for 2025-26 is significantly lower than initially predicted.
The process began on June 20 with the commission inviting consumers for public hearings. Following the hearings, the commission made the decision to increase the rates. The State Electricity Distribution Company (CSPDCL) had initially proposed a 20% increase, citing losses due to line losses and theft.