Bihar’s power distribution companies (DISCOMs) have achieved an unprecedented milestone in revenue collection, amassing a total of Rs 17,114 crore for the financial year 2024-25. This marks a significant 13.27% increase from the previous fiscal year, with North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) collecting Rs 7,937 crore and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (SBPDCL) contributing Rs 9,177 crore.
Government Acknowledges Key Contributions
Energy Minister Shri Bijendra Prasad Yadav credited this achievement to the active participation of consumers in making timely bill payments, along with the state government’s progressive policies and strong leadership under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. He expressed appreciation for the dedication of energy department officials, engineers, and staff members, whose concerted efforts in enhancing billing efficiency, consumer service, and grievance redressal mechanisms have contributed significantly to the improvement in revenue collection.
Enhanced Billing Efficiency and Consumer Benefits
Energy Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal emphasized that improved billing and collection efficiency have enabled the state to maintain an uninterrupted power supply without imposing additional financial burdens on consumers. As a result of the robust revenue performance, electricity tariffs were reduced last year, and further reductions have been introduced this year.
For rural consumers using more than 50 units, electricity costs have been lowered by 54 paise per unit, while rural consumers with smart meters benefit from a 79 paise per unit reduction. Urban smart prepaid meter users also enjoy a 25 paise per unit cut, making electricity more affordable for households across Bihar.
Reduction in Losses and Smart Meter Implementation
One of the major factors contributing to this record revenue collection is the reduction in Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses. The timely completion of loss reduction projects under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and the widespread installation of smart prepaid meters have played a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and revenue realization.
Additionally, various government departments, including Health, Education, Panchayati Raj, Urban Development, and Public Health Engineering, have supported DISCOMs through centralized payments. This strategic approach has further strengthened the financial health of Bihar’s power distribution companies.
A Promising Future for Bihar’s Power Sector
The record-breaking revenue collection underscores Bihar’s commitment to advancing its power distribution infrastructure and ensuring financial sustainability. With continued efforts to improve billing mechanisms, enhance consumer services, and reduce losses, the state is poised to achieve greater efficiency and affordability in its power sector, benefiting millions of consumers statewide.
As Bihar continues to implement progressive policies and technological advancements in power distribution, the state’s energy sector is on a path of sustained growth, promising a brighter and more efficient future for all.