Electricity Tariffs To Rise From April 1 With Minimal Impact On Low-Consumption Households

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka has approved an increase in electricity tariffs, effective from April 1st. The Commission noted that low-consumption domestic users will face only a minimal increase.

For households consuming 0 to 30 units, bills will rise by just Rs. 15 per month, while those using 31 to 60 units will see an increase of Rs. 45. Consumers using between 61 and 90 units will face a Rs. 120 hike, and those consuming 91 to 180 units will see an increase of Rs. 420. High-consumption households exceeding 180 units will experience a 25% increase.

PUCSL Chairman Prof. K.P.L. Chandralal explained that the Commission also considered time-based tariffs, with higher rates during peak hours from 6:30 PM to 10:30 or 11 PM, and lower rates during daytime and off-peak periods.

Religious and charitable institutions consuming less than 180 units will not face any increase, while higher usage will attract a 9.6% hike.

Prof. Chandralal further stated that general-purpose users will see an 8% rise, industrial users 8.7%, hotels 9.9%, and government institutions 14.4%.

The Ceylon Electricity Board had originally requested a 13.56% increase for the second quarter of 2026, but the Commission approved a lower rate based on projected demand and limited data on fuel usage.

Regarding potential future hikes amid global oil price surges, Prof. Chandralal said the CEB can submit a new proposal if costs rise more than 15% above current projections, which the Commission will review.