Date:13/01/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/01/13/stories/2008011353390400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

KERC reduces power tariff

Staff Reporter

Bangalore: Electricity consumers under Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) have a reason to cheer this Sankranti festival.

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has reduced the power tariff by five to 25 paise a unit with effect from February 1.

According to a press release here on Saturday, the Commission said 2007-08 had been one of the best years with high availability of power from hydro stations. Keeping in view the surplus funds in BESCOM, the Commission has extended relief to all consumers of BESCOM. The commission has reduced the agricultural tariff for metered irrigation pump sets.

Keeping in view that the quality of power supply is not the same as in the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike area, the Commission has reduced the tariff in other urban areas and rural areas coming under BESCOM jurisdiction.

The Commission has reduced the tariff of Bhagya Jyothi/ Kutir Jyothi by 35 paise per unit. The tariff has been reduced by 20 paise per unit for domestic consumers in village panchayat areas. With the above reduction of tariff, there will be a revenue impact of Rs. 257 crore on BESCOM for the financial year 2008-09.The Commission has increased the rebate for solar heaters from the existing 40 paise to 50 paise per unit subject to a ceiling of Rs. 50 per month.