Tripura Regulatory Commission Announces ₹0.75/kWh Green Tariff and Moderate Renewable Tariff Hike

The Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission (TERC) has announced the tariff order for FY 2024-25, effective from August 1, 2024. The new tariff includes a modest average increase of 7.15%, which is similar to the previous increase. This adjustment comes after TERC reviewed the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) petition for FY 2022-23 to FY 2024-25. TSECL had initially sought a much higher hike of ₹962.87 Crore, but TERC approved only ₹10.77 Crore. In response to consumer interest in green power, TERC has introduced a Green Tariff of ₹0.75 per kWh, which is added to the existing tariff for consumers opting for green power from TSECL.

The revised tariff hike is relatively low, ensuring minimal impact on low-income consumers. The increase in energy charges is approximately ₹0.25 per unit for domestic rural consumers and less than ₹0.75 per unit for other categories. This is relatively lower compared to tariffs in other Indian states. The hike primarily addresses higher fuel and power purchase costs due to increased gas prices. TERC has also rejected additional costs related to Transmission and Distribution (T&D) losses beyond targets set in the previous order.

To address rising power purchase expenses and increased demand, TSECL is directed to source cheaper power and reduce losses affecting financial and technical efficiency. With the implementation of solar regulations and policies, consumers can benefit from solar rooftop installations, ensuring a continuous power supply. TERC has also factored in a tariff subsidy, which requires the Government of Tripura to make advance payments to TSECL monthly. If the government fails to pay the subsidy in advance for two consecutive months, TSECL will need to recover the full tariff amount.

Additionally, TERC has mandated improvements in consumer service. TSECL must expand its tele-operator services on the 1912 helpline and implement a callback feature for busy lines to address consumer complaints more effectively.

To encourage digital payments, TERC has introduced a 1% rebate for payments made online within five working days of bill generation. The Commission has also instructed TSECL to enhance its manpower planning, ensure the deployment of skilled workers, and provide training following the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) Regulations. Strict adherence to power quality standards is expected to improve overall service reliability.