Rising Heat, Rising Bills: Bengaluru's Gruha Jyothi Scheme Sees Decrease In Beneficiaries

The scorching heat in Bengaluru has led to an increase in electricity bills this summer. Many consumers have observed a surge of at least 50 units in their electricity consumption over the last two months. Data from the Energy Department indicates that the number of beneficiaries of the Gruha Jyothi scheme in February decreased by 50,000 compared to January in the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company's (Bescom) Bengaluru Metropolitan Area Zone (BMAZ).

In January 2024, a total of 32,30,746 domestic installations benefited from the government's flagship Gruha Jyothi scheme, which provides a zero bill for consumers using up to 200 units of electricity. In February 2024, 31,80,604 domestic installations benefited from the scheme, resulting in a difference of 50,142 beneficiaries. The subsidy amount for January was ₹221.96 crore, whereas for February, it was ₹213.80 crore.

"The slight decrease in the number of beneficiaries is mainly due to the heat in Bengaluru. The use of fans and air conditioners (ACs) has increased, leading to higher electricity consumption. Those who were near the Gruha Jyothi limit, such as in the 190s (units), crossed over. However, once the summer months are over and their consumption falls back under 200 units, they will continue to benefit from the scheme," said a senior official from Bescom.

Overall Demand Surges

The state's energy demands also reflect the summer heat. Bescom's demand reached 8,128 MW in February and is projected to climb further to 8,500 MW in April and May.

"While the demand in the Bescom region was 8,128 Mega Watts (MW) in February, it rose to around 8,300 MW in March. In March 2023, the demand was 7,740 MW. The demand is expected to increase to 8,500 MW in April and May," said K. J. George, Energy Minister.

Gruha Jyothi registrations have reached 85.87% of total LT consumers in Karnataka. As of March 24, the number of Gruha Jyothi registrations across Karnataka stood at 1.67 crore, which is 85.87% of the total LT consumers (1.95 crore).

"The Energy Department has taken all necessary steps to ensure that the Gruha Jyothi scheme reaches people across rural and urban Karnataka, significantly improving their lives," George stated.