GERC sanctions 2.47 per cent tariff hike to four discoms

The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) has approved a tariff hike of 2.47 per cent to four state-run distribution companies to the tune of 13 paise per unit for consumers except those below poverty line, farmers and those consuming up to 200 units.
"The total increase sought by distribution companies was 17 paise per unit. As against that, the GERC has approved average increase of 13 paise per unit for all categories of consumers, except below poverty line consumers, agricultural and residential users consuming electricity upto 200 units per month," a statement by GERC secretary Dilip Raval said.
While, the private player Torrent Power Limited (TPL) involved in electricity distribution in Ahmedabad and Surat had asked for an average increase in tariff to the tune of 53 paise per unit, the GERC has approved an average hike of 15 paise per unit with an average hike of 2.36 per cent, the statement said.

The new tariff will come into effect from April 1, the statement said.
"There is no increase in fixed charge of single phase residential consumers. There is a moderate increase in fixed charge by Rs 5 per month per installation for residential consumers," the statement said.
Increase in tariff rates will bring additional revenue to the tune of Rs 780.90 crore for four distribution companies, it said.
Gujarat's state-run companies include Dakshin Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (DGVCL), Madhya Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (MGVCL), Paschim Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (PGVCL), Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (UGVCL) had sought a tariff hike of 17 paise per unit, it said.