New Electricity Rates: Power Becomes Costlier as Rates Rise Over 5%! – Check What’s Changed

Electricity consumers in Uttarakhand are set to face a price hike of 5.62% starting April 1, 2025, following the latest revision by the Uttarakhand Electricity Regulatory Commission (UERC). This development brings both increased tariffs and strict accountability measures for power distribution authorities.
⚡ Electricity Rates Increased by 5.62%
The Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) had earlier proposed a steep 12.01% hike, but the regulatory commission approved a more moderate 5.62% increase. A significant portion of this hike is attributed to the Power Development Fund (PDF) of UJVNL, which alone added a 5.5% burden on consumers.
Despite the moderation, the hike is expected to impact monthly electricity bills for households and businesses alike.
🔍 Why Did the Rates Go Up?
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UPCL had proposed a 12% increase to cover operational costs.
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UERC allowed only 0.12% hike from UPCL's end.
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However, UJVNL's PDF burden added 5.5%, pushing the overall rise to 5.62%.
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The Commission criticized inefficiencies and rampant power theft, urging UPCL to tighten its vigilance.
🧾 No More Smart Meter Security Charges
In a big relief for consumers, the Commission scrapped the smart meter security charge. UPCL had earlier increased the security fee for smart meters, but the Commission ordered:
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No security charges to be recovered from consumers
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Immediate halt to any additional or ongoing recovery
This decision will directly benefit thousands of consumers, especially in urban areas where smart meter rollouts are active.
🕵️♂️ Crackdown on Electricity Theft and Officer Accountability
The Commission has taken a strict stand on electricity theft, especially in rural and urban areas. Key directives include:
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Auditing of divisions/sub-divisions where theft is reported
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Detailed review of scheme operation costs
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Fixing responsibility of UPCL officers and employees who fail to meet targets
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Activation of UPCL’s vigilance wing for ground-level monitoring
📣 What It Means for You
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Expect a moderate increase in bills from April 2025
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No extra charges for smart meters
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UPCL to be held accountable for power theft and inefficiencies
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Better transparency and monitoring promised by the Commission