Chandigarh, 29 March
In a landmark decision, the Punjab Government has announced a reduction in electricity tariff rates for domestic and commercial consumers, fulfilling its commitment to making power more affordable. Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO stated that this move has been made possible due to the government's efficient management of the power sector, leading to financial surplus and enhanced energy production.
Addressing a press conference in Amritsar on Saturday, Harbhajan Singh ETO highlighted the major achievements that contributed to this decision. The Pachhwara coal mine, which was non-functional since 2015, was revived under the AAP government in 2022, ensuring a steady supply of coal for Punjab’s thermal plants. The Punjab Government successfully acquired the 540 MW GVK Thermal Plant, renaming it the Shri Guru Amar Das Thermal Plant. This move has significantly boosted Punjab’s energy production, reducing dependence on private power plants.
ETO added that since July 2022, the Punjab Government has provided 300 units of free electricity per month to domestic consumers using up to 600 units. This has resulted in zero electricity bills for 90% of households in the state. For the first time, Punjab’s power sector has recorded a financial surplus.
Tariff Reductions Announced by Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO will be effective from April 1st, 2025 to March 31st, 2026. The revised tariff rates are for Domestic Consumers, who are using more than 600 units per bill, Up to 2 kW load: Bills reduced by ₹160/month, 2-7 kW load: Bills reduced by ₹90/month and Above 7 kW load: Bills reduced by ₹32/month. And for Commercial Consumers Tariff reduced by ₹0.02/unit for consumption up to 500 units. This will significantly benefit small businesses and commercial establishments.
The Minister said that the three-tier slab structure for domestic consumers, Residential and Non-Residential Supply, has been simplified to two slabs, making billing more consumer-friendly. Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO reassured the public that no fixed charges have been increased for any category, ensuring that electricity remains affordable for all sections of society.
The Punjab Government is committed to ensuring uninterrupted, clean, and cost-effective electricity for the people. Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO emphasized, "This is a historic step towards making electricity more affordable. The AAP government is dedicated to delivering real benefits to the people, and we will continue working towards a self-reliant and surplus power sector."