Punjab govt lowered power tariff due to efficient management: Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO

Chandigarh: Punjab power minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said the Punjab govt's decision to lower electricity tariff rates for domestic and commercial consumers was achievable due to the efficient management of the power sector, which resulted in a financial surplus and boosted energy production.
He highlighted key achievements that contributed to this decision, including the revival of the Pachhwara coal mine, which was non-functional since 2015 and was restored under the AAP govt in 2022, ensuring a steady coal supply for Punjab's thermal plants. Additionally, the Punjab govt successfully acquired the 540 MW GVK thermal plant, renaming it the Shri Guru Amar Das Thermal Plant, significantly boosting energy production and reducing dependence on private power plants.
ETO emphasised that since July 2022, the Punjab govt has provided 300 units of free electricity per month to domestic consumers using up to 600 units, resulting in zero electricity bills for 90% of households in the state. For the first time, Punjab's power sector recorded a financial surplus. Announcing the tariff reductions effective from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, he said for domestic consumers using more than 600 units per bill, those with up to 2 kW load will see their bills reduced by Rs 160 per month. Consumers with 2-7 kW load will get a reduction of Rs 90 per month, and those above 7 kW load will see a Rs 32 per month reduction. For commercial consumers, the tariff has been reduced by Rs 0.02 per unit for consumption up to 500 units, benefiting small businesses and commercial establishments.
The minister also announced that the three-tier slab structure for domestic consumers under residential and non-residential supply has been simplified into two slabs, making billing more consumer-friendly. He reassured the public that no fixed charges have been increased for any category, ensuring electricity remains affordable for all sections of society.
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