CM Vishnu Deo Sai has announced that the Chhattisgarh Electricity Regulatory Commission has approved a minimal electricity tariff hike of just 1.89% for the financial year 2025–26, one of the lowest increases in recent years. The decision was made following a transparent process involving public hearings and has been widely appreciated by both domestic consumers and industrial sectors, especially steel and rolling mill industries.
Marginal Tariff Increase: No Direct Burden on Farmers
Chief Minister Mr. Sai clarified that the hike in domestic electricity tariffs is only 10 to 20 paise per unit, while the agricultural pump tariff has increased by 50 paise per unit. However, this change will not impact farmers directly, as the government continues to subsidize the cost in advance. “Our objective is to shield farmers from any additional financial burden,” he said. “The government stands firmly with the farming community of Chhattisgarh.”
Relief for Energy-Intensive Industries
To support energy-intensive sectors and maintain competitiveness, the state government has reduced tariffs for industries such as mini steel, rolling mills, and ferro alloys. This reflects the administration’s commitment to boosting industrial growth and investment in the state.
State Ensures One of the Highest Electricity Supply Rates in India
Mr. Sai highlighted that Chhattisgarh currently provides 23.85 hours of electricity daily in urban areas and 23.45 hours in rural regions. Agricultural feeders receive 18 hours of power supply, one of the highest durations among Indian states. The Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) loss has significantly reduced from 23.14% in 2020–21 to just 13.79% in 2024–25, demonstrating the government’s focus on efficiency, transparency, and technology-led improvements.
Massive Investment Plan in Power Infrastructure
The approved tariff also includes a comprehensive capital investment plan:
- Rs. 2,433 crore for the transmission company
- Rs. 3,977 crore for the distribution company
- Rs. 2,992 crore for the generation company
Additionally, a 1320 MW power plant is being constructed in Korba with an investment of Rs. 15,800 crore. This will enable Chhattisgarh to become an energy-surplus state, ensuring uninterrupted and sustainable power supply.
Double Subsidy for Rooftop Solar: Push Towards Energy Self-Reliance
The Chief Minister also announced support for renewable energy under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme. Under this:
- The Central Government will offer up to Rs. 78,000 in subsidy for rooftop solar systems up to 3 kW
- The Chhattisgarh Government will provide an additional Rs. 30,000 for systems up to 2 kW
“This initiative will empower domestic consumers to become energy self-reliant and contribute to the growth of green energy,” said Mr. Sai.
Rs. 3 Lakh Crore Energy Sector Agreements to Boost Jobs and Growth
In a significant move, Chief Minister Mr. Sai revealed that energy sector agreements worth over Rs. 3 lakh crore have been signed by the state government and its power companies. These agreements are expected to transform both electricity generation and employment across Chhattisgarh.
“Our top priority is to provide electricity that is uninterrupted, affordable, and of high quality,” Mr. Sai stated. “Through current and upcoming projects, Chhattisgarh is on course to set national benchmarks in the energy sector.”
With strategic reforms, targeted subsidies, and ambitious infrastructure development, Chhattisgarh is taking confident strides toward energy security, industrial growth, and environmental sustainability.
