BERC Tariff Order 2026–27 Simplifies Billing And Introduces Tod And Green Tariff In Bihar

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) has issued a new tariff order for the financial year 2026–27, bringing important changes to electricity billing and pricing across the state. The order, released on March 18, 2026, will come into effect from April 1, 2026, and will apply to both North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL).

One of the major highlights of the new order is the simplification of the tariff structure. The Commission has merged multiple slabs under domestic and non-domestic categories into single slabs. For example, the slabs under Domestic 2 (DS-II) and non-domestic categories like NDS-I and NDS-II have been combined. The energy charges for these merged categories have been set at the lower of the earlier rates. This step is expected to reduce electricity costs for many households and small businesses. In addition, some industrial categories have also been simplified, with specific segments like high-tension oxygen manufacturing now included under general industrial categories.

The Commission has also focused on modernizing the electricity system by making Time of Day (ToD) tariffs mandatory for certain consumers. From April 1, all users with a contract demand above 10 kW, except those in agriculture, and all consumers with smart meters will be billed based on ToD rates. This system encourages users to shift their electricity consumption to off-peak hours, helping in better load management and grid stability. Along with this, a Green Tariff option has been introduced, allowing consumers to choose renewable energy at an additional cost of Rs. 0.68 per unit.

The tariff decision is based on a detailed review process, including the true-up for FY 2024–25 and the annual performance review for FY 2025–26. During this process, BERC carefully examined the revenue requirements submitted by the DISCOMs. While the companies had requested higher revenue recovery, the Commission prioritized consumer protection and avoided excessive charges. As a result, a revenue surplus of Rs. 364.51 crore has been approved for NBPDCL and Rs. 2,405.14 crore for SBPDCL.

Public participation also played an important role in shaping the final order. Hearings were held in cities like Begusarai and Gaya, where stakeholders raised concerns related to power supply, tariffs, and subsidies. By maintaining a uniform tariff across both DISCOMs, the Commission has ensured a “one state, one tariff” approach, bringing fairness and clarity for electricity consumers across Bihar.