Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 18: The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has issued an order revising the electricity tariffs for the financial year 2026-27, delivering a mixed bag for consumers across the state. While Bengaluru and Mysuru regions will face a hike, consumers in Mangaluru (MESCOM), Hubballi, and Kalaburagi will see a reduction in their bills through refunds.
The new rates will be applicable to electricity consumed from May 1, 2026, to April 31, 2027.
Hike for BESCOM and CESC
Due to an income deficit of Rs 2,068 crore recorded in the 2024-25 fiscal year, BESCOM consumers—covering Bengaluru city, rural, Chikkaballapur, Kolar, Tumakuru, Davanagere, Chitradurga, and Ramanagara—will see a sharp increase of 56 paise per unit. Similarly, the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) in the Mysuru region will collect an additional 15 paise per unit to cover its Rs 121.71 crore deficit.
Relief for MESCOM and other ESCOMs
In a move that brings cheer to the coastal region, the Mangaluru Electricity Supply Company (MESCOM) has recorded a surplus of Rs 276.48 crore. Consequently, KERC has ordered a refund of 9 paise per unit to MESCOM consumers.
Other regions seeing a reduction include HESCOM (Hubballi) and GESCOM (Kalaburagi), both of which will refund 10 paise per unit. The Hukkeri Rural Electric Cooperative Society (HRECS) recorded a significant surplus, leading to a massive refund of 155 paise (Rs 1.55) per unit for its consumers.
True-up mechanism explained
These changes are part of the “True-up” adjustment process. Every year, ESCOMs fix tariffs based on expected expenses. However, actual costs vary due to power purchase prices and operational changes. The difference between the actual and expected revenue is adjusted in future bills under the heading 'FY 25 True-up Charges.'