New tariff, higher consumption, and upper tariff slabs cited as key factors; customers urged to report complaints
Power Division Explains Reasons Behind Higher June Electricity Bills
Responding to public complaints over higher electricity bills in June, the Power Division said that faulty meters are not responsible in most cases. Instead, it attributed the increase to the implementation of a new tariff, higher electricity consumption, and customers moving into higher tariff slabs.
The Power Division has said that faulty electricity meters are not responsible for most cases of higher electricity bills reported by customers in June. According to the department, the increase is mainly the result of the implementation of a new electricity tariff, higher power consumption, and customers moving into higher tariff slabs.
Power Division Secretary Mirana Mahruq presented the explanation in a written statement during a media briefing on the country's power situation on July 6, Monday at Bidyut Bhaban in Dhaka.
According to the statement, the new electricity tariff approved by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission came into effect in June. As a result, the same amount of money now purchases fewer electricity units than before. Consequently, prepaid meter users are required to recharge more frequently, which may create the impression that additional money is being deducted.
The Power Division also said that extreme heat, lower-than-usual rainfall, Eid-ul-Azha, the FIFA World Cup, the Secondary School Certificate examinations, and increased use of electrical appliances have all contributed to higher electricity demand. As a result, many consumers have moved into higher tariff slabs, leading to increased bills.
The department acknowledged that clerical errors were identified in some billing cases. It said those bills are being reviewed and corrected where necessary.
According to the Power Division, the previous tariff has been retained for lifeline consumers and the first residential slab to protect low-income households. It also said the government continues to provide subsidies while working to improve power generation, transmission, and distribution efficiency, reduce system losses, and expand smart metering.
Customers who have concerns about their electricity bills have been advised to contact the customer service centres of their respective distribution companies. The department said complaints will be investigated through meter inspections, bill verification, and other necessary measures.
The Power Division also said the issue of meter rental charges is under government review and that a decision will be announced soon.
The department further urged journalists and content creators to verify information before publishing reports on electricity bills. It also called on the public not to be influenced by rumours or misinformation that could lead to damage to power infrastructure.
//DBTech/DJN/MI//
