OERC to announce new Odisha electricity tariff for 2025-26 today; hike in tariffs likely

The Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) is set to announce the new electricity tariff for the financial year 2025-26 today. The decision, expected in the afternoon, follows a series of public hearings that began on February 17, where various stakeholders, including power distribution companies and consumer rights groups, presented their arguments.

OERC Deputy Director Sanjay Raut confirmed that the commission has thoroughly reviewed all inputs before finalising the revised power tariff structure. However, he did not divulge any details regarding any anticipated hike in tariffs.

Public Protests Against Possible Tariff Hike

Amid widespread speculation regarding a possible hike, protests have erupted across the state.

On Friday, the Odisha Bidyut Upabhokta Mahasangha staged a demonstration at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, opposing policies implemented by Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL).

During the demonstrations, protesters also attempted to gherao the Legislative Assembly, citing concerns over a potential hike in electricity charges.

ALSO READ: SOP for morning classes in schools, no power cuts: Odisha CM’s directives to tackle heat wave

Political Opposition Grows

Political parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Congress, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist), have also criticized the anticipated tariff revision.

BJD leader and Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das accused the ruling BJP of failing to fulfill its election promise of providing 300 units of free electricity. "Instead of keeping their commitment, the government is now considering a tariff hike despite Odisha being a power-surplus state," Das said on Friday.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Panchanan Kanungo has also warned that any increase in power tariffs would spark statewide protests.

"Before the 2024 elections, the BJP promised free power. Now, there is a proposal to hike the tariff by 12.42 paise per unit. If this happens, we will launch mass agitations," he said during an interaction with the media in February.

Congress has also questioned why power distribution companies are seeking higher tariffs when industries owe Rs 1,096 crore in unpaid electricity dues.

Awaiting the Final Decision

With rising tensions and political opposition, all eyes are on OERC’s official announcement today. Whether consumers will face higher electricity bills or get relief from the existing rates remains to be seen.