Patna: Urban consumers in Bihar may soon see their electricity bills fall, with the state’s power distribution company proposing a significant overhaul of the existing tariff structure. The South Bihar Power Distribution Company (SBPDCL) has submitted a proposal to the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) seeking to replace the current two-tier tariff with a uniform slab for domestic and commercial consumers.
If approved, the change would benefit around 5 million consumers — split evenly between urban domestic and commercial users — by making electricity up to Rs 1.40 per unit cheaper for households.
In senior officer in the energy department said the present system applies two separate slabs for urban domestic consumers: one up to 100 units and another up to 125 units. Any consumption above 125 units is billed at Rs 5.52 per unit. This tiered system, he said, results in fluctuating deductions from smart prepaid meters, making it difficult for consumers to track their actual per-unit charges.
Under the new proposal, the company wants a single uniform tariff of Rs 4.12 per unit, even for consumption beyond 125 units. A uniform rate of around Rs 5.67 per unit has also been proposed for commercial consumers, which officials say could offer considerable relief to small shops, traders and micro-businesses.
The proposed tariff would be applicable from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027. Before any decision is made, BERC will conduct divisional-level public hearings, inviting inputs from consumers, experts and civil society groups. The commission will issue its final order after the hearings.
Officials argue that the current system complicates billing for those using smart prepaid meters, as deductions vary every few units. A uniform tariff, they say, would make billing more predictable, increase transparency and reduce complaints related to unclear charges.
If implemented, the new rates could save urban households between Rs 100 and Rs 300 a month. Small businesses too are expected to benefit from lower and more predictable electricity bills. The power company believes the changes will ease financial pressure on consumers and simplify the billing process, while virtually eliminating disputes linked to fluctuating deductions.
