Bengaluru: New electricity rates implemented

Bengaluru: A new electricity rate will be enforced for consumers in Bengaluru from April 1, as declared by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC).

Under the revised structure, all residential users will now be subjected to a uniform rate, eliminating the previous tier system.

Previously, residential consumers were categorized into two slabs based on their usage: 0-100 units and above 101 units. However, the KERC has decided to abolish this distinction, setting a flat rate of Rs 5.90 per unit for all home users, regardless of consumption levels. This change took effect from the Monday.

According to the revised tariff, households consuming more than 100 units per month will now pay Rs 1.10 per unit, significantly reduced from the previous rate. This adjustment aims to provide relief to consumers, as illustrated by the example of a household consuming 210 units monthly, who will now pay approximately Rs 230, resulting in noticeable savings. Conversely, for consumers utilizing less than 100 units per month, the rate has slightly increased from the prior Rs 4.75 per unit.

Moreover, minor adjustments have been made across all consumer categories to accommodate the revised rates. For instance, the fixed charge for residential capacity users has been raised from Rs 110 to Rs 120 per kWh, commencing from April onwards, implying a slight burden for this category.

Interestingly, the reduction in rates will also extend to industrial consumers, benefiting both small and very small industries (LT-5) as well as heavy industry (HT) consumers. Notably, the tariff for HT commercial customers has been reduced to Rs 1.25 per unit, while the demand charge stands at Rs 10 per kWh, offering relief to industries.