Tirupati, March 27 (TNT): In a major relief to power consumers, the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission has approved the 2026–27 tariff order without any hike, following the state government’s decision to bridge the revenue gap of power utilities.
Announcing the details here on Friday, APSPDCL Chairman and Managing Director Shivashankar Lotheti said the move, backed by the government led by N. Chandrababu Naidu, would significantly ease the burden on domestic, agricultural and commercial consumers.
The state government agreed to cover a revenue deficit of ₹8,238 crore, enabling the regulator to avoid increasing tariffs.
This decision has provided relief to over 53.84 lakh domestic consumers, while free power supply will continue for 12.15 lakh agricultural users.
In a significant welfare push, around 8 lakh SC/ST households, along with barbers and dhobi ghats, will continue to receive free electricity.
Commercial consumers have also been given substantial relief, with per-unit charges reduced from ₹12.25 to ₹9.95 — a cut of ₹2.30 per unit. Additionally, the load limit for handloom weavers has been increased from 10 HP to 20 HP, benefiting nearly 18,000 workers.
The tariff order also introduces structural changes, including incentives for solar equipment manufacturers and reclassification of certain sectors such as water purification and printing units from commercial to industrial categories, reducing their power costs.
The decision is being seen as a politically significant move by the ruling coalition, balancing fiscal pressures with consumer welfare, particularly ahead of evolving political and economic challenges in the state.
Officials said the measures would not only reduce electricity bills across categories but also support key sectors such as agriculture, small industries and renewable energy, reinforcing the government’s pro-consumer stance.
TNT LE
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