Jammu and Kashmir electricity tariffs to increase from September 1

The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has approved an average 6.83 per cent increase in retail supply tariffs for Jammu and Kashmir, effective September 1, 2026. The revised rates will apply to electricity consumed through March 31, 2027.

For metered domestic consumers, energy charges will be set at Rs 2.45 per unit for up to 200 units, Rs 4.20 for 201–400 units, and Rs 4.60 for consumption exceeding 400 units. Fixed charges will increase by 25 per cent to Rs 10 per kW per month. Below Poverty Line (BPL) consumers and agricultural consumers will remain exempt from these increases.

The JERC approved an Aggregate Revenue Requirement of Rs 5,095.82 crore for Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) and Rs 5,179.90 crore for Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL). The commission also accounted for Rs 2,420.78 crore in tariff-related subsidy support from the government.

Opposition leaders have criticized the hike, alleging it contradicts the National Conference-led government's electoral promise to provide 200 units of free electricity to every household.