Cut power bills by 3-5%, don’t hike them, consumers demand
By Anuradha Hiripitiyage Electricity tariffs should be reduced by between 3 and 5 percent instead of being increased by 2.88 percent in the fourth quarter, as proposed by the National System Operator (NSO), Electricity Consumers’ Association Secretary Sanjeewa Dhammika said. Addressing a media briefing in Maradagahamula, Divulapitiya, Gampaha, yesterday (16), Dhammika said a proper assessment […]
Electricity tariffs in Sri Lanka are under scrutiny, with the National System Operator (NSO) proposing a 2.88 percent increase for the fourth quarter. The Electricity Consumers’ Association (ECA) Secretary, Sanjeewa Dhammika, argues that such a hike would be unjustified. He suggests a reduction of 3-5 percent instead, based on a proper evaluation of electricity generation costs.
Dhammika highlights that hydropower, which accounts for 32.34 percent of generation in the upcoming quarter, would lower costs for consumers if adequately considered. He criticizes the inclusion of unapproved charges, such as Rs. 669 million in capacity charges and Rs. 1,069 million for loan repayments on incomplete projects. The PUCSL has set a deadline of October 30 for public input on the proposed tariff revision.
Dhammika emphasizes the potential for further tariff reductions by leveraging the rise in reservoir levels, promoting renewable energy, and optimizing solar power and battery storage systems. The ECA urges the government to withdraw the proposed increase, insisting that consumers should not bear the financial consequences of coal supply issues and disputed charges.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
