The capital may soon introduce LT Time-of-Day (TOD) metering in which
power consumers in the domestic sector will be charged according to the
power usage during peak and non-peak hours. The new system is expected
to discourage users from consuming more power during peak hours so that
loadshedding is minimized in residential areas. Power distribution
companies often have to procure additional power from the market at a
very high cost to meet the demand during peak hours. Last year TOD was
introduced for commercial consumers.
RK Verma, power secretary, confirmed that he had communicated to
Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) about implementing TOD
for the domestic sector. "We have sent a directive to DERC to introduce
TOD for the domestic sector. DERC has to look into the matter. This can
help reduce power bills of consumers as well," he said. DERC officials,
however, said they haven't received the missive and it is likely to
reach them on Monday.
Consumers are concerned about this move. "TOD is not advisable for
the domestic sector under any condition. This system is basically going
to fix when one can use the geyser or the air conditioner. There are
many kinds of consumers like office-goers, businessmen and school
children who will have to use electricity during certain hours. How can
they change their schedule?" said Atul Goyal of United Residents' Joint
Action (URJA).
Commercial users pay a peak-hour surcharge of 15% in summer and 10%
in winter. Sources said the peak-hour tariff for domestic users might
increase to Rs 6.40 per unit during 6.30pm-10.30pm.
