Consumers in Punjab are bracing for a significant rise in electricity tariff prices as a temporary relief package on power tariffs is set to end on September 30, 2024. The three-month subsidy, which provided financial respite to households consuming up to 200 units, will lapse, leading to a sharp increase in costs for low- and middle-income consumers.
Electricity bills to surge
Starting October 1, consumers using up to 200 units of electricity will see a notable hike in their bills. Non-protected consumers using up to 100 units will face a new rate of Rs 23.59 per unit, while those consuming between 101 and 200 units will experience a Rs 7.12 increase, raising their rate to Rs 30.07 per unit.
Protected consumers, who receive more limited price hikes, will also be affected. Their rates will rise by Rs3.95 to Rs11.69 per unit for the first 100 units, and for those using 101 to 200 units, the price will increase by Rs4.10, reaching Rs14.16 per unit.
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The subsidy, aimed at alleviating costs during the peak summer months, will now give way to higher electricity charges, which are expected to impact millions of households across Punjab.
Electricity unit rates from Oct 1
| Consumer Category | Units | Current Rate | Increase | New Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Protected Users | 1 to 100 | Rs 16.48 | Rs 7.11 | Rs 23.59 |
| 101 to 200 | Rs 22.95 | Rs 7.12 | Rs 30.07 | |
| Protected Consumers | 1 to 100 | Rs 7.74 | Rs 3.95 | Rs 11.69 |
| 101 to 200 | Rs 10.06 | Rs 4.10 | Rs 14.16 | |
| Lifeline Consumers | Up to 50 | Rs 3.95 | — | Rs 3.95 |
| 51 to 100 | Rs 7.74 | — | Rs 7.74 |
