Karnataka power tariff hiked, consumers to pay higher electricity bills from April 1: Report

The new electricity rates will come into effect from April 1. (Representational image)

The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has increased power rates and will charge 36 paise more per unit, according to media reports.

The new rates will come into effect from April 1, 2025.

#BREAKING: The Karnataka Electricity Department has increased power rates and will charge 36 paise more per unit. The new rates will be implemented from April 1, 2025 pic.twitter.com/xrK6zNPilm
IANS (@ians_india) March 20, 2025

Reacting to the tariff revision, Karnataka Minister Sharan Prakash Patil clarified that the increase will not affect the common people. While speaking to TV9, he stated that the Gruha Jyothi scheme, which provides 200 units of free electricity, remains unaffected.

"The hike applies only to those who consume more than 200 units. The BJP is misleading people by siding with the wealthy. The government has not increased the rates; the autonomous KERC has done so. The BJP's allegations are baseless," he said.

As the tariff was hiked, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lashed out at the ruling Congress over the increase in electricity price. BJP state treasurer Shanthi Kumar took to X and stated, "Congress means burden on the common man. Starting April 1, Karnataka’s electricity rates will rise by 36 paise/unit another assault on people’s pockets. From milk to water, bus fares to metro, everything costs more under congress’ appeasement politics. Vote Congress, pay the price!"

Congress means burden on the common man.Starting April 1, Karnatakas electricity rates will rise by 36 paise/unit another assault on peoples pockets. From milk to water, bus fares to metro, everything costs more under congress appeasement politics.Vote Congress, pay the pic.twitter.com/hxT9cN3tVQ Shanthi Kumar (@BJPShanthikumar) March 20, 2025

According to media reports, BJP state president BY Vijayendra also criticised the state government at the Vidhana Soudha, claiming that Karnataka has been burdened with a series of price hikes under the current administration.