Ahead of 2027 polls, Punjab slashes electricity prices in major relief for consumers
PTC News Desk: With barely months left for the assembly elections, the Punjab government has reduced electricity tariffs across all consumer categories for the 2026-27 fiscal. Power tariffs have been reduced by 50 paise to Rs 1.50 per unit. The overall relief to the power consumers is Rs 7,851.91 crore.
The revised order, announced by the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) will be applicable from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027.
However, the move is expected to benefit the financially strained state government more than ordinary consumers, as it will significantly reduce the large subsidy burden paid for free and subsidised electricity. The regulator said the tariff cut would result in an overall relief of ₹7,851.91 crore while ensuring the financial stability of Punjab State Power Corporation Limited.
The surplus was mainly achieved after Punjab State Power Corporation Limited took the unusual step of submitting a revised petition, lowering its projected power losses from 12% to 10%.
Key tariff cuts (FY 2026-27)
Category, Existing rate New rate
Domestic (Up to 2kW/300 units) ₹5.40/unit ₹3.85 / unit
Agriculture (Pumpsets) ₹6.70/unit ₹5.38 / unit
Commercial (Up to 500 units) ₹6.89/unit ₹6.10 / unit
Industrial (large/medium) Variable Reduced by 60-70 paise
EV charging stations ₹6.28/kVAh ₹5/kVAh
- With inputs from agencies
