Electricity Regulatory Commission Upholds NEA’s Decision, Rejects Industries’ Request

The Electricity Regulatory Commission has upheld the decision made by the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) regarding the tariff dispute on dedicated and trunk line electricity services. Hearing the complaints filed by Panchakanya Plastics Industries Pvt. Ltd. and Panchakanya Steel, the Commission ruled that NEA’s decision to collect outstanding dues was legally valid and refused to issue an interim order.

Both industries had long been avoiding payment of electricity tariffs for power consumed through dedicated and trunk lines. After granting a 21-day deadline, NEA cut their power supply on Kartik 4 and 5 upon non-payment. Following the disconnection, the industries submitted an application to the Commission after paying the first installment and requested interim relief.

A five-member bench chaired by Dr. Ram Prasad Dhital conducted the hearing. NEA was represented by Raj Kumar Pokharel, Ramesh Kumar Ghimire, and Tularam Giri, while advocate Rojan Khadka argued on behalf of the industries.

After reviewing the case, the Commission concluded that NEA had determined the tariff in line with existing legal provisions. It also affirmed that cutting off the power line for failing to pay dues within the stipulated timeframe was permitted by law. Therefore, the Commission declined to issue an interim order and endorsed NEA’s actions.

However, the Commission clarified that the industries may approach the court if they are not satisfied with the decision.