GUWAHATI: Federation of Industry & Commerce of North Eastern Region (FINER), the premier Industry and Commerce body has welcomed the announcement by Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission (AERC) on reduction of electricity tariff for State of Assam for 2021-22. There is an overall decrease of 15 to 20 paise per unit of electricity charges, with no increase in fixed charges as passed by AERC. The new decreased prices shall be effective from April 1, 2021. This is for the fourth consecutive time that the charges of electricity have been reduced in state of Assam, with benefit to both consumers and the distribution utility, stated a press release.
"Honourable AERC has very meticulously and in a balanced manner have framed this order, taking care of both the utilities and the consumer. I whole heartedly thank the entire team of AERC for this brilliant order. This is a welcome positive move for Assam's commerce, industry and society as a whole. It a step in right direction during this time of COVID Pandemic" said FINER president PabitraBorgohain.
In response to the public notice, Federation of Industry & Commerce of North-Eastern Region (FINER) had filled on January 11, 2021, its suggestions and objections against the proposed increase in power tariff, on the tariff petitions filed by APDCL, APGCL and AEGCL. The price of power for all consumers was requested to be increased by the utilities, upon which FINER requested a 10% decrease rather through its authorised legal representative.
After ensuring Public hearing for the petitions filed by utilities, FINER had represented its suggestions and objections on February 6 at AERC. FINER's suggestions and objections has been taken well cognizance of and has helped to rationalize power tariff in state of Assam. Due to less amount of own generations in State, Assam has to purchase power from outside state to meet its energy requirements, making the power cost in Assam, one of the highest in the country. Power cost in Assam, is still higher vis-à-vis its neighbouring states, however a start of trajectory of reduction in power cost shall help in long term development of the state.