Tamil Nadu hiked tarrif in July but still lower than Kerala; Malayalees feeling jealous of lower rates in neighbouring state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even though the electricity tariff in Tamil Nadu was increased in July, the common man was not overburdened. However, in Kerala, where tariffs are going to be increased, the rate is currently higher than that in Tamil Nadu.

In Kerala, the rate of electricity up to 500 units is Rs 7.90. In Tamil Nadu, the electricity tariff of up to 500 units is Rs 6.45 after the tariff hike. Tamil Nadu is providing subsidy and free electricity to everyone so that they are not seriously affected by the fare hike. The first 100 units are free. 50% subsidy for the next 100 units. The increased rate is only for consumption after that.

Of the 2.47 crore consumers in Tamil Nadu, one crore use less than 100 units of electricity. The next 63 lakh people use less than 200 units. 1.63 crore people are using subsidised electricity. In Kerala, 50 units of electricity is free, but it is not available to everyone. The first 100 units are priced at Rs 3.25. This is of little use. In Kerala, an energy charge of Rs 1,935 is to be paid for a monthly consumption of 400 units, while in Tamil Nadu it is Rs 1,125.

In Kerala

0-100 units -3.25 - 325

100-200 - 4.05 - 405

200-300 - 5.10 - 510

300 -400 - 6.95 - 695

Total Rs 1935

In Tamil Nadu

0-100 units - free.

100-200 units Rs 4.50 - 50% subsidy - Rs 225

200-300 units Rs 4.50 - Rs 450

300-400 units Rs 4.50 - Rs 450

Total Rs 1125

In Kerala, the fixed charge is Rs 240 while in Tamil Nadu it is Rs 107. In Kerala, 10% of the energy charge is taken as electricity duty. This is not there in Tamil Nadu. There is no fuel surcharge of Rs 76 in Tamil Nadu.