Andhra Pradesh Freezes Power Tariffs for Retail Users, Maintaining Key Election Promise

Andhra Pradesh announced no changes to electricity tariffs for retail users starting April 1, 2025, fulfilling an election promise. The government subsidizes Rs 12,632.40 crore to cover specific consumer concessions. The APERC introduced Time of Day tariffs for certain users, aiming at effective power utilization and more realistic short-term energy assessments.

In a significant move, Andhra Pradesh has kept power tariffs unchanged for retail users for the fiscal year starting April 1, fulfilling a key election promise. The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) issued tariffs for 2025-26, backed by the government, which covers Rs 12,632.40 crore in subsidies for specific consumer categories.

To improve power usage efficiency, Time of Day tariffs have been implemented for commercial and industrial connections exceeding 10 kW. This measure facilitates lower daytime prices and enhances demand-side management. Additionally, from April 2025, residential construction projects will shift to domestic tariffs, reducing the cost for home builders.

Other measures include applying standby tariffs to all open-access users and unchanged tariffs for EV charging stations with connected loads up to 150 KW. The APERC's initiatives aim to balance demand with supply and reduce dependency on spot markets for energy requirements.