Energy Ministry differs on proposed electricity tariff reduction from today

Energy Ministry differs on proposed electricity tariff reduction from today.

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has announced a 20% average reduction in electricity tariffs, effective from midnight today (17), but the Power and Energy has declared that the proposal will be implemented on the advice of the Finance ministry.

The Ministry in a press release said that the proposals should be first officially received and thereafter they would need Finance Ministry advice.

The Ministry of Power Ministry’s decision was announced less than two hours after PUCSL’s Director of Communications, Jayanath Herath, confirmed the revised tariff rates effective for the first six months of the year.  

Herath explained that the decision was made after carefully reviewing the tariff revision proposals and cost data submitted by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), alongside the PUCSL’s counter-proposals and public feedback. This process was conducted in accordance with Section 30 of the Sri Lanka Electricity Act No. 20 of 2009 and PUCSL regulations.  

Under the revised tariff structure:  

- Households consuming up to 30 units will see a 29% reduction.  
- Consumers using between 31–60 units will receive a 28% reduction.  
- Those using between 61–90 units will benefit from a 19% reduction.  
- Households consuming 91–180 units will have an 18% reduction.  
- Usage exceeding 180 units will see a 19% reduction.  

Additionally, the tariff reductions extend to other sectors:  

- Public sector – 11% reduction  
- Hotel sector – 31% reduction
- Industrial sector– 30% reduction
- Religious institutions – 21% reduction
- Street lighting – 11% reduction

The revised electricity tariffs, as outlined by the PUCSL, aim to ease the financial burden on consumers across multiple sectors.