Power Shock to Consumers in Telangana: Proposed Hike in Electricity Charges

*Hyderabad, September 19, 2024:* Consumers in Telangana may soon face a significant hike in their electricity bills as power distribution companies (DISCOMs) grapple with a deficit of Rs. 1,200 crore. To bridge this gap, the companies have proposed an increase in current electricity charges, which is likely to affect households consuming more than 300 units of electricity.One of the key proposals is to raise the fixed charge by Rs. 40 per kilowatt for homes exceeding 300 units. While the government continues to provide 200 units of free electricity under the Grihajyoti scheme, the impact of this price hike will be felt most by those consuming over 300 units per month. For consumers below this threshold, there will be no change in their current bill structure.However, households with high electricity usage are expected to experience a sharp increase in their monthly expenses, potentially leading to a significant financial burden.The proposal, still under review, has caused concern among the state’s residents, particularly large households and those using air conditioning, which can quickly push consumption over the 300-unit mark. Many are now bracing for the potential surge in their power bills, should the government approve the increase.While DISCOMs argue that the hike is necessary to address their financial crisis, consumer rights groups are urging the government to reconsider, citing the economic impact on middle-class families already struggling with rising costs of living.The Telangana government is yet to make a final decision on the proposal.