Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission (TERC) has proposed a 7% increase in power tariffs, effective from October 1, 2023. The hike in tariff was kept limited to 7 per cent though Tripura State Electricity Corporation Ltd (TSECL) sought a substantial 150% tariff hike.
The 7% tariff increase comprises an uptick in fixed charges by Rs 5, with the remainder directed towards energy rates. Notably, the Commission has recognized that fixed charges in Tripura are relatively lower compared to other regions.
In a press release, the TERC stated, “TSECL had initially identified a revenue gap of approximately Rs 1200 crores, which would necessitate a colossal 150% tariff increase. However, exercising prudence, TERC has trimmed it down to Rs 60 crores, resulting in the 7% tariff increase.
This increase is achieved by raising fixed charges by Rs 5, the lowest in the country, and adjusting the remaining portion within energy rates. This adjustment is expected to generate an additional Rs 60 crores in revenue for TSECL.”
Under the new tariff structure, beneficiaries of the ‘Kutir Jyoti Scheme’ will be charged Rs 68 per connection per month for consumption up to Rs 15 kWh/month. Additional units beyond this threshold will be subject to tariff rates applicable to the regular domestic category.
For domestic (rural) consumers, fixed charges will range from Rs 20 per connection per month to Rs 55 per connection per month, depending on the number of units consumed. Energy charges per kWh will vary according to consumption units in Slabs 1 to 4 (0-50 units to above 301 units onwards), with rates at Rs 5.08, Rs 6.40, Rs 6.59, and Rs 7.70, respectively.
Urban domestic consumers will face a fixed charge of Rs 55 per connection per month, with energy charges per kWh set at Rs 5.08 for consumption up to 50 units. Subsequent consumption tiers include rates of Rs 6.40 for the next 100 units, Rs 6.59 for the next 150 units, and Rs 7.70 for consumption of 300 units onwards.
In the case of commercial users, fixed charges will vary between Rs 30 per connection per month to Rs 66 per connection per month.
TERC has also announced a special 5% rebate on the total billing amount for consumers who make prompt payments within 7 days from the billing date.
Additionally, TSECL has informed TERC that the Government of Tripura will provide subsidies amounting to Rs 50 crore for various categories to mitigate the impact of the tariff adjustment on consumers.
