Surat. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has achieved significant success in its arguments against the electricity tariff petition filed with the Gujarat government's Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC).
Following this decision, industrial and domestic electricity consumers across Gujarat will benefit from the 'Time of Use' (ToU) tariff. In a major change in the new tariff order issued by GERC, the term 'pre-paid smart meter' has been replaced with 'smart meter', making all smart meter holders eligible for the ToU discount. According to the new order, domestic and industrial consumers using electricity between 11 AM and 5 PM will receive a direct discount of 60 paise per unit.
It is believed that this decision will save electricity consumers across the state more than ₹400 crore annually. Under the leadership of SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi and Vice President and President-designate Ashok Jirawala, a delegation from the chamber presented a detailed written and oral presentation before GERC Chairman Pankaj Joshi. During this time, the chamber's Secretary Polik Desai and Managing Committee member Suresh Patel were also present.
During the hearing, SGCCI argued that according to the central government's regulations, the timing for TOD and TOU charges should be the same. Additionally, it was argued that only the term 'smart meter' should apply in the provisions related to smart meters, and not the requirement for 'pre-paid smart meter'. GERC accepted the chamber's arguments and directed electricity distribution companies to amend the new tariff order.
As a result, all consumers with smart meters capable of ToD recording will now be able to benefit from the ToU discount. Industries will also benefit directly from this decision, as various sectors including textiles, diamonds, and engineering will be able to better plan production shifts and reduce electricity costs. SGCCI welcomed this decision, stating that it will clear the long-standing confusion regarding electricity tariffs in the state and promote energy efficiency.
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