Mon Nov 18 16:03:20 UTC 2024: ## CPI Objects to Andhra Pradesh’s Proposed Electricity Surcharges
**Vijayawada, November 18, 2024** – The Communist Party of India (CPI) has strongly opposed proposed electricity surcharges in Andhra Pradesh, arguing they unfairly burden consumers. The party filed objections with the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) against the Fuel Price and Power Purchase Cost Adjustment (FPPCA) proposals for 2023-24.
These proposals, from the state’s power distribution companies, seek to recover ₹11,820 crore (approximately $1.4 billion USD) from consumers, adding 50 paise to ₹2.50 per unit to monthly bills. This follows a recent ₹6,072 crore surcharge for 2022-23, which the CPI deems unacceptable.
CPI State secretary K. Ramakrishna criticized the government’s handling of the energy sector, citing inefficient policies, alleged corruption, preferential treatment of large companies, and the underutilization of state-owned thermal plants as contributing factors to the high costs. He also pointed to the purchase of electricity from the open market at inflated prices as a major driver of the increased charges.
Ramakrishna called for APERC to investigate these issues and prevent further cost shifting to consumers. He specifically demanded the cancellation of the ₹6,072 crore true-up charge and the complete abolition of the true-up and adjustment charge system, which he described as flawed and prone to misuse. The CPI further urged the government to uphold its promise of reducing electricity costs and absorb the additional expenses instead of passing them on to citizens.
First Piper 