MERC Holds Public Hearing on MSEDCL’s Tariff Petition
During the public hearing on MSEDCL’s power tariff petition on Tuesday, consumers strongly urged the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) to lower electricity rates. According to media report, they pointed out that the cost of electricity in Maharashtra was higher than in neighboring states. Additionally, solar energy traders voiced their concerns, criticizing the petition for being detrimental to the growth of non-conventional energy sources.
A total of 231 complaints and suggestions were submitted for the public hearing organized by MERC at the District Planning Committee (DPC) Hall in Sadar. Eleven individuals registered their objections upon arriving at the venue, and approximately 31 people shared their opinions with the Commission. The Commission Chairman, Sanjay Kumar, along with members Anand Limaye and Surendra Biyani, listened to the views of the public online. At the outset, Abha Shukla, Principal Secretary of the Energy Department, and Lokesh Chandra, Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of MSEDCL, provided an overview of the petition, assuring that electricity prices would be reduced in phases.
Activist Anil Wadpalliwar criticized the pollution from the Koradi and Khaparkheda power stations in Nagpur, arguing that the city, already struggling with environmental issues, deserves lower electricity rates. He also pointed out that industries are moving out due to high electricity costs and accused MSEDCL of monopolistic practices and corruption, with employees allegedly demanding bribes for cable repairs.
Power expert Mahendra Jichkar, on the other hand, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of public hearings, claiming that complaints often go unaddressed. He noted that while the government frequently talks about modest rate hikes of 5 to 6 percent, the reality is that electricity bills have risen significantly—by 42 percent for 1,000 units and 34 percent for 100 units since 2020. He called for a freeze on proposed rate increases until at least 2030.
Prashant Mohta of the Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) urged that electricity rates should only rise by 5 to 7 percent, as industries are leaving Maharashtra due to cheaper rates in neighbouring states. He also called for minimal fuel adjustment charges (FAC) and warned that higher fixed charges would further increase costs.
Girdhari Mantri and Saket Suri of the All India Renewable Energy Association (AIREA) expressed concern over the petition’s impact on the solar industry. Suri pointed out that electricity rates in Maharashtra are higher than in neighboring states, with fixed charges up to 91% more and domestic rates 145% higher. MSEDCL has sought approval for five measures detrimental to the solar industry, including increased fixed charges and wheeling charges for all customers. Mantri added that industries are suffering due to high electricity costs. Amit Deotale highlighted delays in providing meters for rooftop solar installations, urging accountability for officials.
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