Chandigarh: Industrial consumers on Monday voiced serious concerns about rising electricity bills and billing-related issues during a meeting with officials of Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) in Industrial Area, Phase-II.During the discussions, industrialists highlighted problems like inflated electricity bills, the shift from KWH-based billing to KVAH-based billing, non-receipt of bills, and billing discrepancies.Industry representatives claimed that several consumers who had been receiving monthly electricity bills of around Rs 80,000 earlier are now being billed nearly two to three times the previous amount. They attributed the sharp increase to factors such as fuel and power purchase cost adjustment (FPPCA) charges and fixed charges.CPDL officials heard their concerns and assured them that issues within the company’s jurisdiction would be addressed. They clarified that key matters relating to FPPCA and fixed charges are governed by the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC). According to CPDL, these charges are being levied in accordance with JERC regulations.Several industry representatives raised specific issues during the interaction. Chander Verma pointed out discrepancies in solar energy billing and sought immediate correction of errors. CPDL officials assured that the matter would be examined on priority.Industrialist Arun Goyal questioned the transition from KWH-based billing to KVAH-based billing. In response, CPDL confirmed that KVAH-based billing has been implemented from June 2026.The issue of fixed charges imposed on industrial consumers was raised by industrialist Arun Mahajan. CPDL provided an explanation of the billing mechanism but maintained that any revision in fixed charges falls within the jurisdiction of JERC.Another industrialist, Avi Bhasin highlighted concerns related to billing mistakes, meter reading dates and issues affecting high-tension (HT) electricity connections. Verma also reiterated the industry’s demand for an 8% rebate for HT consumers who have installed and maintained their own substations.CPDL officials advised industrial associations to take up policy-related matters directly with JERC, while assuring them of prompt action on operational issues within the utility’s authority.The company also clarified that installation of smart meters is not mandatory for industrial consumers and that consumers may install their own electricity meters in accordance with applicable regulations.Industrial representatives said they would continue pursuing unresolved issues, particularly those related to fixed charges and other components contributing to higher electricity bills.
