Power consumers given rebate in bill

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, who also holds the energy portfolio, on Wednesday announced a major relief to domestic electricity consumers by reducing the additional security deposit amount on electricity bills to half.

The benefit will be extended from November. The consumers who have already paid can avail the benefit as 50 percent of the additional security fund deposited by them will be adjusted, the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Co (CSPDCL).

As per standing instructions of the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission, every October, based on the average consumption of electricity during the last 12 months, based on the prevailing tariff, the additional security deposit is calculated.

If the amount is higher, then it is deducted from existing security deposit. The difference amount has to be paid by the consumer along with the next electricity bill (November).

In the current fiscal, due to earlier lockdown, people have consumed higher units of electricity due to usage of various devices. Apart from it, the calculation of two year has been done against the norm of one year.

Thus, the average security deposit amount is higher than compared to a year.

Considering these facts, the Chief Minister announced the 50 percent rebate.