Domestic, agricultural, commercial and industrial users from four districts join via video conferencing to submit suggestions for new electricity tariff framework (2026–2030)
Published on: February 17, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
Electricity consumers from multiple categories participated in a public hearing organized by the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) regarding tariff petitions and revenue requirements for the financial years 2026–27 to 2029–30. The hearing was conducted through video conferencing at the Executive Director’s office located at Parrinalla in Rajnandgaon.
Consumers from four districts — Rajnandgaon, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, and Kabirdham — including domestic, non-domestic, agricultural, and industrial representatives, participated in the consultation process. The primary objective of the hearing was to record public suggestions and objections before determining new electricity tariffs.
Members of the Commission assured participants that the tariff determination process would maintain a balance between consumer interests and the financial sustainability of power distribution companies.
Industrial Representatives Seek Policy Relief
Representatives from industrial HV-3 and HV-05 categories, including ABIS Company officials, suggested that cross-subsidy should be determined based on voltage levels. They also recommended incentives for low load factor operations and proposed that demand charges during minimum usage periods be fixed at 50 percent of the contracted demand.
The industrial representatives further urged the continuation of the existing 1.25 percent rebate offered on advance electricity bill payments, stating that it encourages timely payments and improves financial discipline among consumers.
Chambers of Commerce Raises Industry Concerns
President of Rajnandgaon Chamber of Commerce, Kamlesh Baid, emphasized the need to retain the existing tariff structure to provide relief to industries. He also suggested provisions ensuring fair compensation rates for electricity generated under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana beneficiaries.
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He proposed that benefits similar to those available for LV-4 category consumers should also be extended to HV-3 and HV-05 category users to promote industrial growth and economic activity in the region.
Domestic Consumers Voice Inflation Concerns
Domestic consumer representative Rupchand Bhimanani expressed concerns over rising inflation, stating that any increase in electricity tariffs would add financial pressure on common households. He also recommended simplifying electricity bills to make consumption details clearer and easier to understand for consumers.
Commission Records Suggestions, Final Order Expected Soon
During the hearing, the Commission recorded multiple suggestions from consumers across categories. Officials stated that after detailed analysis of the feedback received, the Commission would issue its final tariff order within the next few months. Authorities assured that the final decision would be impartial and equitable.
Among those present were Consumer Forum Chairman A.K. Grahak, Additional Chief Engineer Mangal Tirkey, Superintending Engineer (Rajnandgaon Circle) Shankeshwar Kanwar, Executive Engineers N.K. Sahu and Seema Dheal, PRO D.S. Mandavi, and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce including Rajkumar Bafna, Rajesh Jain, and Nemichand Jain, along with departmental officials.
