MESCOM Proposes Electricity Tariff Hike of 12 Paise Per Unit to Offset Revenue Deficit

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Mangaluru : The Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (MESCOM) has submitted a proposal to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) to increase the electricity tariff by 11 to 12 paise per unit. This move is aimed at bridging a significant revenue deficit of $83.12$ crore incurred during the 2024-25 fiscal year. The proposal was presented during a public hearing chaired by KERC Chairman P. Ravikumar at the MESCOM headquarters in Bejai on Wednesday.

The proposal faced stiff opposition from consumers during the hearing. Citizens and stakeholders pointed out that the KERC had already approved a tariff revision last year, which was intended to remain in effect for a period of three years. Consumers argued that introducing an additional hike to cover old arrears places an unfair financial burden on the public. They urged the commission to reject the proposal, citing that frequent revisions disrupt household and industrial budgets.

KERC Chairman P. Ravikumar, along with member H.K. Jagadish, heard the grievances and technical objections raised by the public. While MESCOM officials maintained that the hike is necessary for financial stability and to manage the deficit, the commission has taken the consumers’ feedback into account. A final decision on whether to approve or modify the proposed hike is expected to be announced after further deliberation by the regulatory body.