Chandigarh/Mohali, March 6: A move preceding the Punjab Vidhan Sabha elections, the state has authorized a substantial reduction in electricity rates across all consumer categories for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The new tariff order, which takes effect on April 1, provides an overall financial relief of Rs 7,851.91 crore to the public.
The Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) declared that the average cost of power supply has dropped to Rs 6.15 per kWh from the previous Rs 7.15 per kWh. For domestic users, the reduction ranges between 55 paise and Rs 1.55 per unit. Commercial and industrial sectors will also see lowered costs, with relief varying from 12 paise to 79 paise per unit depending on the category.
PSERC Chairman Vishwajit Khanna stated that the cross-subsidies have been maintained within the mandatory plus-minus 20 per cent limits. He affirmed that these adjustments are strictly in line with the provisions set forth by the National Tariff Policy. Khanna maintained that the restructuring ensures a balanced approach for all stakeholders.
The state has also set the tariff for electric vehicle charging at Rs 5 per kVAh, making it the lowest rate in the country. This reduction is expected to assist the government by lowering the total burden of power subsidies. Officials asserted that the move aims to streamline energy costs as the state prepares for the upcoming polls in a few months.
