Gridco Appeals OERC To Reconsider Hike In Power Tariff This Year

Bhubaneswar: The State-run power trading firm Gridco (Grid Corporation of Odisha Limited) has requested the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) to reconsider its decision on hike in the power rates creating an apprehension that the electricity tariff may increase in the State this year.

Citing revenue loss, the Gridco appealed before the OERC on August 20 to consider an electricity tariff increase, said sources. On May 23, the OERC had decided to keep the tariff unchanged for 2019-20.

At present, electricity consumers are paying Rs 2.50 per unit per month for the first 50 units, Rs 4.30 per unit above 50 units and up to 200 units. Those who consume electricity above 200 and up to 400 units are paying Rs 5.30 per unit and for above 400 units Rs 5.70 unit per unit.

State Energy Minister Dibya Shankar Mishra said the OERC has the onus to take a decision on power tariff hike. “The OERC will take a call on the electricity rate hike. A decision will be made keeping in view the interest of people,” Mishra added.

Meanwhile, power consumers have raised concerns over undeclared power cut in Bhubaneswar and other parts of the State. “We are worried over the power cuts as children are unable to study. Also, life has become miserable because of these frequent power outages,” a resident from Cuttack said.