PUCSL seek stakeholder comments and suggestions on the electricity tariff revision proposed to be implemented from October
September 29, 2023
Press Release
The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) is soliciting input and recommendations from stakeholders regarding the proposed electricity tariff adjustments scheduled for implementation starting in October. Professor Manjula Fernando, Chairman of the PUCSL, noted that the Sri Lanka Electricity Board (CEB) has put forth two proposals for the third tariff revision this year. He further mentioned that, rather than waiting until January of the following year, the CEB has submitted this unique tariff revision proposal in alignment with a Cabinet decision.
“According to the government’s policy advice on electricity tariffs, CEB can submit proposals for the revision of electricity tariffs in January and July of the year. Accordingly, the next tariff revision is scheduled to come into effect from January next year. However, the Cabinet of ministers has decided to move forward the tariff revision scheduled for the month of January 2024 to this year according to the information presented by CEB on the differences of financial, electricity generation and electricity demand from the forecasted conditions. Accordingly, no tariff revision again next January. The CEB has estimated that there will be a loss of 31 billion rupees this year. The CEB proposal also states that the hydropower generation will be limited to 3,750 gigawatt hours instead of the expected 4,500 gigawatt this year. The CEBs’ tariff revision proposal also state that the power generated from Norochcholei Coal power plant will also be less than expected due to the unexpected malfunctions. The need to purchase emergency power due to the decrease in hydropower is also a factor that affected the tariff revision. In addition, CEB expects that the daily demand will increase to 44.4 gigawatt hours this year. CEB has proposed this very special tariff revision based on these reasons. Prof. Manjula Fernando, Chairman of Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka said.
“One of the proposals put forward by CEB is to increase the charges by 22 percent to all consumers as a fuel surcharge. Other proposal is to increase an electricity unit by Rs.8. The responsibility assigned to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka is to study and review these proposals and the cost data based on them and verify to what extent the data is consistent with the tariff methodology. The final decision will be taken after extensive review and consideration of public comments and suggestions.” Prof. Fernando said.
It was also emphasized that the decision regarding the tariff revision will be made in accordance with the provisions of the Sri Lanka Public Utilities Commission Act and the Sri Lanka Electricity Act.
“According to Section 30 of the Sri Lanka Electricity Act, public opinions and suggestions should be listened to during tariff revision. Section 17 of the Sri Lanka Public Utilities Commission Act also states the need for public consultation. Accordingly, the Commission decided to seek public comments regarding the proposed tariff revision. All stakeholders including the public can submit their comments and suggestions to the commission in writing. In addition, the public has been given the opportunity to submit their comments and suggestions orally on October 18.” Prof. Fernando said.
More details –
Anushika Kamburugamuwa,
Assistant Director ,
Corporate Communications,
0718622800