Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) will decide on electricity rates today amid local body elections. A State Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting will discuss power rates and revenue deficit. No tariff hike since 2019, but Haryana's power companies seek an increase due to losses. UHBVNL and DHBVNL have requested Rs 4,520 crore for the 2025-26 Annual Revenue Requirement (ARR). 4 important issues to be discussed in the meeting 1. Reduction or increase in electricity rates Electricity charges in Haryana have remained unchanged since 2019, increasing losses for power distribution companies. HERC has asked them to present a solid plan to cover the Rs 4,520 crore revenue deficit. 2. Focus on power sector reforms The meeting, led by HERC Chairman Nand Lal Sharma, will finalize electricity tariffs for the next financial year. It will also discuss financial stability of power distribution companies, consumer protection, and power sector improvements in Haryana. 3. Review of state's thermal power plants The meeting will discuss reducing technical and commercial losses, promoting smart metering, and IT-based grievance redressal. It will also review Haryana's thermal power plant efficiency to ensure compliance with improvement directives. 4. Evaluation of PM Surya Ghar free electricity scheme The meeting will review progress under the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme to boost renewable energy. Key decisions will focus on Haryana's electricity tariffs, distribution company improvements, and consumer service enhancements. Committee structure Government decided to collect FSA The Haryana government has extended the Fuel Surcharge Adjustment (FSA) on electricity till 2026, requiring consumers to pay 47 paise per unit. For 201 units, an additional Rs 94.47 will be charged yearly. The FSA, initially abolished when the electricity corporation was profitable, was reinstated in April 2023 due to losses and continues to increase. The recovery aims to address the corporation's rising defaults.Original Article