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The new tariff schedule for the fiscal year 2024-25 has been introduced and will be applicable from June 1, 2024. This schedule outlines the rates for different categories of consumers, including low voltage (LV) consumers, domestic users, non-domestic users, and those involved in agricultural activities. The objective is to provide a clear and structured approach to electricity tariffs, ensuring that consumers are aware of the costs associated with their energy consumption.
For low-voltage consumers, the tariff schedule applies to both single-phase and three-phase connections. Single-phase connections, which operate at 230 volts, apply to consumers with a sanctioned load of up to 5 kW, excluding agricultural and industrial users. Three-phase connections, operating at 400 volts, cater to a maximum demand of up to 112 kW for demand-based tariffs or a maximum sanctioned load of 150 HP for other tariffs.
Domestic consumers, categorized under LV-1, include those using electricity for household appliances, lighting, and other domestic purposes. This category also covers orphanages, homes for the elderly or physically challenged, government student hostels, public libraries, and more. The tariff for domestic consumers is divided into slabs based on consumption levels. For instance, the rate for consumption up to 100 units is ?3.90 per kWh, while higher consumption levels incur progressively higher rates. Fixed charges are also applied based on the sanctioned load, with specific rates for different load levels.
Non-domestic consumers fall under the LV-2 category, which includes shops, showrooms, offices, educational institutions not covered under LV-1, public buildings, and various business establishments. This category also includes private clinics, diagnostic centers, and other commercial activities. Similar to domestic consumers, non-domestic users are charged based on their consumption levels, with fixed charges applied per kW of contracted load. For example, single-phase non-domestic consumers with a load up to 5 kW are charged Rs. 50 per kW per month, with energy charges varying based on consumption.
Agricultural consumers are categorized under LV-3 and LV-4, which cover the use of electricity for irrigation, nursery, horticulture, floriculture, and other agricultural activities. The tariff for agricultural consumers includes a fixed charge per HP of the motor used and an energy charge per kWh. For instance, LV-3 agricultural consumers are charged Rs. 100 per HP per month as a fixed charge and Rs. 5.30 per kWh for energy consumption. There are also provisions for concessional rates for non-subsidized agricultural pump connections and flat rate billing under specific schemes.
In addition to these categories, the schedule outlines tariffs for agriculture-allied activities, which include tree plantation, fisheries, poultry farms, dairy farms, and other related activities. These consumers are charged based on the horsepower of their equipment and the energy consumed.
The tariff schedule also includes several notes to clarify the billing process. For instance, energy charges are telescopic, meaning that different rates apply to different levels of consumption within a billing period. Fixed charges are monthly minimum charges, applicable regardless of whether any energy is consumed during the month. There are also provisions for adjusting the sanctioned load based on the recorded demand over consecutive months, ensuring that consumers are billed accurately according to their actual usage.
Overall, the new tariff schedule aims to provide a transparent and equitable framework for electricity billing, catering to the diverse needs of consumers across different categories. By clearly defining the rates and charges for various levels of consumption and types of users, the schedule helps consumers understand their electricity costs and manage their energy usage more effectively. |
