KSERC takes call on KSEB’s 32-paise surcharge plea — what it means for your power bill

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala electricity consumers were awaiting clarity as the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) sought approval to levy a 32-paise per unit surcharge over 10 months. The request aimed to recover ₹745 crore spent on extra thermal power purchases after a drop in hydropower generation in 2023-24.

The board argued that the surcharge was essential to offset losses from additional thermal power costs. KSEB submitted the proposal in December 2024, based on accounts ending March 2024.

KSERC flags timing

The Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) noted that the surcharge request, based on financial data for the year ending March 2024, was submitted in December, though it should have been done by June. The commission already reviewed the annual accounts and sanctioned the cost of electricity purchases.  According to KSERC, granting the surcharge now would be technically problematic and, therefore, cannot be permitted.
As a result, consumers will not see an increase in electricity charges linked to this proposal.