Rising power bills despite solar panels; industries may shift to Madhya Pradesh

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Electricity bills are rising despite the installation of solar systems, with consumers reporting a 10–15% increase after smart meters. Frequent policy changes by Maharashtra state electricity distribution company limited (MSEDC) are affecting domestic and industrial consumers alike, even as solar users continue to receive bills and political leaders remain indifferent. These concerns were raised during an e-public hearing of the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), where entrepreneurs warned that industries may relocate to Madhya Pradesh.

The hearing was held on Thursday (10.30 am to 1 pm) at Smart City Hall, with MERC chairperson Valsala Nair Singh and members Anand Limaye and Surendra Biyani joining via video conference. Representing Marathwada Small Scale Industries and Agriculture, Mahendra Wadgaonkar said MSEDCL’s changing policies are hurting industries. Mandar Deshpande said solar consumers sign 20-year agreements, but rule changes within a few years leading to higher bills amount to cheating. Wadgaonkar questioned wheeling charges, stating they should apply only when another company’s network is used, noting the issue is sub judice, and also raised concerns over the forcible installation of smart meters without clarity on NABL-certified testing labs. Pankaj Khurade said billing solar users is unfair and alleged MSEDCL passes its losses to consumers, while Bhushan Kulkarni termed the Rs 0.80 per unit concession from 9 am to 5 pm meaningless and sought relief during morning and evening hours. Several speakers demanded a competitor for MSEDCL to improve services. Adv Ashish Singh, Manik Kulkarni, Manisha Alamwarang, Dwarkaprasad Soni, Ashwini Shimpi, Ramprasad Avhad, and Sunil Chaudhary highlighted related issues. Jayesh Kulkarni said that while speakers take an oath at hearings, the commission should also commit to action and questioned varied charges.