Bihar residents should prepare for changes in their electricity bills starting April 1, 2026. The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) is currently finalizing the new tariff structure and is expected to announce the decision around March 15 or 16. While power companies have proposed a general price hike to cover old expenses, the restructuring of billing slabs might bring unexpected relief to families living in cities.
How will the new rates impact your monthly bill?
The power distribution companies have asked for a base increase of approximately 35 paise per unit for all consumers. However, for people living in urban areas, the billing slabs are likely to be merged. Currently, city households pay a higher rate for consumption above 100 units. Under the new proposal, a single rate of ₹7.77 per unit is suggested. This change could make electricity cheaper by about ₹1.18 per unit for those who consume more power.
On the other hand, rural consumers may feel a financial pinch. Since villages already follow a single-slab system, they will not benefit from any merger and will face the direct impact of the proposed rate hike. Additionally, farmers might see irrigation rates go up from ₹6.74 to ₹7.09 per unit.
Why are the electricity charges changing now?
The main reason for this revision is an order from the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL). The tribunal has directed that dues pending since 2012 must be cleared. This involves a principal amount of around ₹1,100 crore plus interest, pushing the total liability significantly higher. The companies are trying to recover these costs through the new tariff plan.
Ultimately, the final amount you pay will depend on the subsidy announced by the State Government. Currently, the government spends nearly ₹3,800 crore annually to keep rates lower. Once BERC releases the order in mid-March, the government will clarify how much of the burden it will absorb for the common man.
