Kochi: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has proposed a 25% hike in electricity tariffs for industrial use during off-peak hours, specifically from 10 pm to 6 am. This move could pose significant challenges for industries that operate on a three-shift basis, including the IT sector and manufacturing industries, which often rely on night-time operations to maintain productivity. Currently, industries are charged reduced rates during these off-peak hours, but the proposed change would increase the cost of electricity during this time by eliminating the 25% discount.
KSEB’s proposal includes a 10% reduction in rates for industries operating during normal hours (6 am to 6 pm). While this is expected to benefit day-shift industries, night-time operations will face a 100% charge, as opposed to the current 75% rate. This change aims to balance electricity demand by encouraging industries to shift more operations to the day when electricity supply is more stable.
With 1,48,277 industrial connections consuming 490 crore units annually, this change could significantly impact Kerala’s industrial sector. A meeting is scheduled by the Electricity Regulatory Commission to discuss the proposal and gather consumer feedback at Ernakulam Town Hall. Businesses that rely heavily on night operations may struggle to absorb these increased costs, leading to potential financial strain. Despite this, the new rates could create financial strain for businesses that operate during night hours.
