Electricity charges in Delhi are regulated by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) and follow a slab-based tariff system. The price of electricity in Delhi varies based on monthly consumption, with subsidies making it free for households using up to 200 units. Beyond this limit, the Delhi electricity unit rate increases progressively, ensuring fair billing while promoting energy efficiency. Power purchase costs, government regulations, and additional surcharges impact the final electricity bill. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of current tariffs, extra charges, and available subsidies in 2025.
See also: How to apply for power subsidy in Delhi?
Delhi electricity rate 2025: Latest updates
→ Delhi power bills to rise by 7–10% due to fuel cost adjustment
Electricity bills in Delhi will increase by 7–10% during May–June 2024 as the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has allowed discoms to recover higher Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC), driven by rising coal and gas prices. The approved PPAC is 7.25% for BRPL, 8.11% for BYPL, and 10.47% for TPDDL.
Residents’ group URD called the hike “arbitrary” and criticized DERC for holding a rushed virtual hearing. They also questioned the variation in PPAC rates among discoms despite similar fuel cost pressures.
“The process under which PPAC charges have been imposed on the people of Delhi by DERC is legally wrong,” said a statement from URD general secretary Saurabh Gandhi.
Discom sources defended the move, saying PPAC is a standard, regulator-approved mechanism to recover increased power procurement costs and avoid financial stress.
→ Delhi power subsidy extended for 2025–26
The Delhi Cabinet has approved the continuation of the power subsidy for 2025–26. Households using up to 200 units will continue to get free electricity, while those consuming 201–400 units will receive a 50% subsidy. The benefit also applies to farmers, lawyers with chambers, and 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims.
DERC tariff order reference for 2024–25
All electricity rates currently applicable in Delhi are governed by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) Tariff Order No. F.17(86)/DERC/2024-25/TO/239, issued on July 31, 2024, and effective from August 1, 2024. This order establishes the tariff structure, fixed charges, and subsidies for domestic, commercial, and industrial categories across all Delhi distribution companies—BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL), BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL), and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL).
The Tariff Order also permits the inclusion of Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC) and Power Purchase Cost Adjustment (PPCA) as dynamic components, allowing discoms to recover fuel and procurement cost fluctuations without a full tariff revision. The DERC’s decision ensures uniformity in billing practices across Delhi while retaining limited flexibility for each discom to adjust based on its operational costs.
Consumers can verify the complete tariff schedule, rate slabs, and subsidy applicability on the official DERC portal at www.derc.gov.in under the “Tariff Orders” section, ensuring transparency and traceability of all approved rates currently reflected in 2025 electricity bills.
Delhi electricity rate per unit 2025
Understanding the Delhi per unit electricity rate is essential for households and businesses to manage their energy costs effectively. Let’s know more about the Delhi electricity unit rate – domestic and commercial per-unit. As a subsidy is offered for 200 units of electricity consumption in Delhi, you can check the electricity rates after 200 units of consumption from below.
Domestic electricity rate in Delhi 2025
The electricity rate in Delhi per unit residential is designed to support affordability while promoting efficient energy use. The Delhi residential electricity rate operates on a slab-based system, where rates vary depending on the monthly consumption of electricity. For households consuming up to 200 units, electricity is free under the government’s subsidy program. Beyond this, the residential electricity rate in Delhi increases progressively, ensuring fair billing while encouraging conservation. This tiered structure makes it essential for residents to monitor usage and understand the applicable rates for their energy needs.
| Category | Charges (fixed) | Energy charges | ||||
| Individual connections | 0-200 (Units) | 201-400 (Units) | 401-800 (Units) | 801-1200 (Units) | >1200 (Units) | |
| Upto 2 kW | Rs 20 per kW per month | Rs 3.00 per kWh | Rs 4.50 per kWh | Rs 6.50 per kWh | Rs 7.00 per kWh | Rs 8.00 per kWh |
| > 2kW & ≤ 5 kW | Rs 50 per kW per month | |||||
| > 5kW & ≤ 15 kW | Rs 100 per kW per month | |||||
| >15kW & ≤ 25 kW | Rs 200 per kW per month | |||||
| > 25kW | Rs 250 per kW per month |
Commercial electricity rate in Delhi 2025 | Commercial unit price
The commercial unit price in Delhi is structured to cater to businesses of varying scales, ensuring transparency and efficiency. The electricity rate in Delhi per unit commercial varies based on the sanctioned load and consumption levels. The Delhi commercial electricity rate is tiered, with specific charges applied for energy usage across different categories. Understanding the commercial rate of electricity in Delhi is crucial for optimizing operational costs, particularly for businesses with high energy demands. By being aware of the commercial electricity rate per unit in Delhi, enterprises can effectively plan their energy consumption and manage expenses.
| Category | Fixed Charges (per kVA per month) | Energy Charges (per kVAh) |
| Up to 3kVA | Rs 250 per kVA per month | Rs 6.00 per kVAh |
| Above 3kVA | Rs 250 per kVA per month | Rs 8.50 per kVAh |
| Industrial connections | Rs 250 per kVA per month | Rs 7.75 per kVAh |
| Agriculture connections | Rs 125 per kVA per month | Rs 1.50 per kVAh |
| Civic utilities | Rs 200 per kVA per month | Rs 6.25 per kVAh |
| Hoardings and advertisements | Rs 250 per kVA per month | Rs 8.50 per kVAh |
Tariff trend over the years
Here’s a comparison of residential electricity tariffs in Delhi (post-subsidy structure) over recent years, to help you understand how pricing has changed:
| Year | Domestic Rate (₹/unit) | Commercial Rate (₹/unit) | Notes |
| 2018 | ~3.00 | — | Pre-fuel-adjustment era; baseline tariff rate. |
| 2020 | ~3.00 | — | Little change; tariff freeze observed. |
| 2023 | 3.00 (0–200 units), 4.50 (201–400), 6.50 (401–800), etc. | — | Slab-based structure with subsidy tiers in place. (Mirrors 2025 structure.) |
| 2025 | Same as 2023: 3.00 / 4.50 / 6.50 / 7.00 / 8.00 | — | Maintained slab structure, continued subsidy. |
What this shows:
- From 2018–2020, domestic tariffs in Delhi largely remained stable at around ₹3.00 per unit, driven by subsidy commitments and a delay in cost pass-through.
- From 2023 to 2025, more granular slab-based subsidies were introduced, with rising incremental rates—indicating a gradual shift toward cost-reflective pricing, especially for higher consumption brackets.
This data suggests that the tariff hike seen in recent years isn’t sudden—it represents a phased transition toward a fairer and more energy-efficient billing model, rather than abrupt tariff shocks.
How much is the electricity bill after 200 units in Delhi?
If your monthly electricity consumption crosses 200 units, you are no longer eligible for the 100% subsidy in Delhi. Here’s how much you will be billed based on your total usage:
Electricity bill after 200 units (with and without subsidy)
| Units Consumed | Per Unit Rate | Approx. Bill Without Subsidy | Subsidy (if opted-in) | Final Bill With Subsidy |
| 201 | ₹4.50 | ₹4.50 | 50% subsidy (up to ₹800) | ₹2.25 |
| 250 | ₹4.50 | ₹1,125 | ₹562.50 | ₹562.50 |
| 300 | ₹4.50 | ₹1,350 | ₹675 | ₹675 |
| 350 | ₹4.50 | ₹1,575 | ₹787.50 | ₹787.50 |
| 400 | ₹4.50 | ₹1,800 | ₹800 (max cap) | ₹1,000 |
| 401–800 | ₹6.50 | ₹2,600–₹5,200 (approx.) | Not applicable | Full amount payable |
Note:
- 100% subsidy is available only up to 200 units.
- 50% subsidy (capped at ₹800) applies to usage between 201–400 units.
- No subsidy applies beyond 400 units.
- Fixed charges and PPAC are additional and vary based on your connected load.
Subsidy on electricity bill in Delhi in 2025
The Delhi government’s power subsidy scheme offers financial relief to domestic electricity consumers. Households consuming up to 200 monthly units receive a 100% subsidy, resulting in zero electricity charges. Those using between 201 and 400 units benefit from a 50% subsidy, capped at ₹800.
Application process
To avail of the subsidy, consumers must opt-in through one of the following methods:
- WhatsApp: Send ‘Hi’ to 7011311111 on WhatsApp. You’ll receive a pre-filled application form. Confirm your details to complete the process.
- Missed Call: Give a missed call to 7011311111. You’ll receive an SMS with a link to the application form. Fill out and submit the form to opt-in.
- QR Code: Scan the QR code provided on your electricity bill to access the application form. Confirm your details to opt-in.
- Offline: Visit your local electricity office to fill out and submit a physical application form.
Eligibility criteria
- Domestic Consumers: Only domestic electricity consumers are eligible for the subsidy.
- Opt-In Requirement: Consumers must apply to receive the subsidy; it is not granted automatically.
Approved subsidy
Once approved, the subsidy is directly applied to your electricity bill. For consumption up to 200 units, the bill amount will be zero. For usage between 201 and 400 units, the bill will reflect a 50% reduction, up to ₹800.
It’s important to note that the subsidy is applicable only if you have opted in. If you haven’t applied, your bill will reflect the standard charges without any subsidy.
Factors influencing Delhi electricity rate
Several factors contribute to the setting of electricity rates in Delhi. These include:
- Cost of power purchase: Electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) purchase power from generation companies at specific rates, which fluctuate based on fuel costs, demand, and availability.
- Transmission and distribution losses: Losses during transmission and distribution affect the final cost of electricity to consumers. The Delhi government and DISCOMs have been working to minimize these losses by upgrading infrastructure and encouraging efficient use.
- Fuel prices: Fuel, such as coal and natural gas, used for power generation can significantly affect electricity rates. When global fuel prices rise, it impacts the cost of power generation, and this increase is often passed on to the consumers.
- Environmental regulations: With a focus on cleaner and greener energy sources, DISCOMs are gradually shifting to renewable energy, which, while environmentally friendly, can initially be more expensive than traditional energy sources.
Understanding your electricity bill in Delhi involves recognizing its primary components:
- Fixed Charges: These are consistent monthly fees based on your sanctioned load or contract demand. For domestic consumers, fixed charges vary with the connected load:
- Up to 2 kW: Rs 20 per kW per month
- Above 2 kW and up to 5 kW: Rs 50 per kW per month
- Above 5 kW and up to 15 kW: Rs 100 per kW per month
- Above 15 kW and up to 25 kW: Rs 200 per kW per month
- Above 25 kW: Rs 250 per kW per month
- Energy Charges: These charges are based on the actual electricity consumed during the billing period. The rates are tiered:
- 0–200 units: Rs 3.00 per kWh
- 201–400 units: Rs 4.50 per kWh
- 401–800 units: Rs 6.50 per kWh
- 801–1200 units: Rs 7.00 per kWh
- Above 1200 units: Rs 8.00 per kWh
- Taxes and Surcharges: These include government-imposed levies such as electricity duty and other applicable taxes. Additionally, surcharges like the Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC) may be applied to account for fluctuations in power procurement costs. For instance, in February 2024, Delhi’s electricity bills increased due to a rise in the PPAC, with discoms revising it in the range of 6.75% to 8.75%.
Load factor and household consumption patterns in Delhi
Understanding Delhi’s tariff slabs becomes clearer when seen through actual consumption patterns. A typical middle-class household in the city consumes between 180 and 220 units per month, which places them within the subsidy-eligible bracket under the current policy. This means many middle-income families effectively pay little or no electricity charges, depending on usage. In contrast, affluent households in larger apartments or independent homes often consume 600 units or more each month, which pushes them into the highest tariff slabs, where subsidies no longer apply and cross-subsidisation becomes evident.
This divide shows how tariff design is not just about technical pricing but also about socio-economic distribution. By keeping most middle-class users in the subsidised range, the government shoulders the revenue gap through higher tariffs for heavy users and commercial establishments, making electricity pricing as much a political decision as an economic one.
How to calculate Delhi electricity bill in 2025?
Calculating and paying your electricity bill in Delhi is a straightforward process, thanks to the structured tariff system and the availability of online payment platforms. Here’s a concise guide to assist you:
Understanding Electricity Charges in Delhi
The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has established a tiered tariff structure for domestic consumers:
| Connected Load | Fixed Charges (Rs/kW/month) | Energy Charges (Rs/kWh) |
| Up to 2 kW | 20 | 3.00 |
| > 2 kW and ≤ 5 kW | 50 | 4.50 |
| > 5 kW and ≤ 15 kW | 100 | 6.50 |
| > 15 kW and ≤ 25 kW | 200 | 7.00 |
| Above 25 kW | 250 | 8.00 |
Note: These rates are based on the Delhi Tariff Order 2020-2021.
Calculating your electricity bill
- Determine Units Consumed: Check your meter or previous bill to find the total units (kWh) consumed during the billing period.
- Apply Tariff Rates: Multiply the units consumed by the applicable energy charge rate based on your connected load.
- Add Fixed Charges: Include the fixed charges corresponding to your connected load.
- Include Additional Charges: Factor in any additional charges such as meter rent, taxes, or surcharges as specified by DERC.
Example Calculation:
For a consumer with a connected load of 3 kW consuming 350 units in a month:
- Energy Charges: (200 units x Rs 3.00) + (150 units x Rs 4.50) = Rs 600 + Rs 675 = Rs 1,275
- Fixed Charges: Rs 50 x 3 kW = Rs 150
- BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL):
- Visit the BRPL Quick Pay page.
- Enter your CA (Customer Account) number and proceed to view and pay your bill using options like net banking, credit/debit cards, or UPI.
- BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL):
- Access the BYPL Quick Pay portal.
- Provide your CA number to fetch your bill details and choose a preferred payment method.
- Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL):
- Navigate to the TPDDL Bill Payment section.
- Enter your CA number to view your bill and complete the payment using available online options.Total Bill (excluding additional charges): Rs 1,275 (Energy) + Rs 150 (Fixed) = Rs 1,425
How to paying your electricity bill online?
Delhi residents can conveniently pay their electricity bills online through various platforms:
- BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL):
Electricity distribution companies in Delhi
In Delhi, electricity distribution is managed by multiple companies, leading to potential variations in tariffs across different regions. The primary distribution companies and their respective service areas are:
- BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL): Serves South and West Delhi.
- BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL): Covers East and Central Delhi.
- Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL): Operates in North and Northwest Delhi.
- New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC): Manages electricity distribution in specific central areas, including Lutyens’ Delhi.
While the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) sets uniform tariff structures, minor differences can arise due to factors like Power Purchase Adjustment Charges (PPAC) and other surcharges. For instance, in July 2023, DERC approved tariff hikes for consumers using more than 200 units per month, with increases of 9.42% for BYPL and 6.39% for BRPL.
Additional charges in Delhi Electricity bills
While fixed and energy charges form the primary components of electricity bills, there are other additional charges that consumers should be aware of. These include:
- Late Payment Fees: Applied when bills are not paid by the due date.
- Service Taxes: Government-imposed taxes added to the bill amount.
- Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC): A variable charge reflecting fluctuations in the cost of power procurement, which can increase during fuel price hikes.
Why is NDMC electricity so expensive in 2025?
Electricity in NDMC areas (like Lutyens’ Delhi and parts of central Delhi) is costlier primarily because of a significantly higher Power Purchase Cost Adjustment (PPCA) rate. This rate reflects the extra cost distribution companies incur when buying power, especially when fuel prices surge.
As of the January–March 2025 quarter:
- NDMC’s PPCA was raised to 54.52%, the highest in the city.
- In contrast, other areas had much lower PPAC rates:
- BRPL: 18.19%
- BYPL: 13.63%
- TPDDL: 20.52%
NDMC does not always benefit from the same subsidies or power procurement efficiencies that other DISCOMs enjoy. As a result, residents in NDMC zones often face steeper electricity bills, especially if their usage exceeds the subsidized slabs.
New electricity connection charges in Delhi
Obtaining a new electricity connection in Delhi involves specific charges that vary based on the type of connection and the sanctioned load. Here’s a concise overview:
Advance consumption deposit (Security deposit):
- Domestic supply: Rs 750 per kW or part thereof of the connected load.
Service line cum development (SLD) charges:
- Low tension (LT) supply: Rs 250 per kW or per kVA, up to a maximum of Rs 25,000.
- High tension (HT) supply: Rs 1,000 per kW or per kVA.
Meter installation charges:
- Single phase connection: Rs 500
- Three phase connection: Rs 1,000
Additional charges:
- Installation inspection fee (other than at the time of energizing new connection):
- Up to 5 kW: Rs 120
- More than 5 kW up to 10 kW: Rs 200
- More than 10 kW: Rs 400
- HT Installation: Rs 1,000
Please note that these charges are subject to change and may vary based on specific circumstances. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to consult the official website of the respective electricity distribution company or contact their customer service directly.
Why is Delhi’s electricity bill so high?
Electricity charges in Delhi have increased primarily due to the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) approving hikes in the Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC) and Power Purchase Cost Adjustment (PPCA) charges. These adjustments reflect rising power procurement costs influenced by increased coal and fuel prices.
For instance, in areas under the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), the PPCA was raised from 38.75% to 54.52% for the January-March 2025 quarter, making electricity in these regions the most expensive in the city. In contrast, other areas like those served by BSES Yamuna Power Limited, BSES Rajdhani Power Limited, and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited have seen reductions in PPAC charges, leading to lower consumer bills in those regions.
As of February 2025, the price of electricity in Delhi has undergone adjustments due to changes in the Power Purchase Adjustment Cost (PPAC) rates. The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has revised these rates, leading to varying impacts across different regions:
New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Areas: The PPAC has been increased to 54.52% for the January-March 2025 quarter, resulting in higher electricity bills for consumers in these regions.
Other Areas: Conversely, regions served by BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL), BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL), and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL) have experienced reductions in PPAC rates. For instance, as of February 2025, the revised PPAC rates are:
- BYPL: 13.63%
- BRPL: 18.19%
- TPDDL: 20.52%
These reductions have decreased electricity bills for consumers in the respective areas.
Therefore, while some regions in Delhi are experiencing higher electricity costs due to increased PPAC rates, others benefit from reduced charges, leading to lower bills.
Smart meters: Enhancing Delhi’s electricity infrastructure
Delhi has been actively implementing smart meters as part of a broader effort to modernise its electricity grid, improve billing accuracy, and promote energy conservation. These meters enable real-time electricity consumption monitoring, helping consumers and power distribution companies (DISCOMs) optimise energy usage and reduce inefficiencies.
Impact on billing and consumer experience
Unlike traditional meters, smart meters eliminate manual readings, reducing discrepancies and estimated billing issues. They also provide real-time energy usage data, allowing consumers to track and adjust their consumption patterns to avoid higher tariff slabs.
A study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) found that:
- 60% of surveyed users reported greater transparency in billing after switching to smart meters.
- 90% of users had a smooth installation experience.
- Prepaid smart meters helped consumers monitor usage and prevent unexpectedly high bills.
NDMC’s 100% smart metering milestone
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has led the smart meter transition, replacing 50,000 conventional meters to become the first Indian distribution company with a 100% smart metering solution. This shift is expected to:
- Save ₹1.24 billion annually by reducing Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses.
- Improve load management and detect power theft more efficiently.
Delhi’s smart meter rollout and future plans
Delhi’s major DISCOMs—BSES Rajdhani, BSES Yamuna, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL), and NDMC—are gradually rolling out smart meters across the city.
- TPDDL alone has installed over 500,000 smart meters and aims to cover its entire service area by 2025.
- BSES Discoms plan to install 4.1 million smart meters under the Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP).
The central government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) aims to replace 250 million conventional meters with smart prepaid meters across India by 2025-26. This initiative is expected to:
- Reduce power theft and unauthorized usage.
- Provide DISCOMs with real-time insights into electricity demand.
- Help consumers track their usage through mobile apps and opt for prepaid billing options.
Are smart meters mandatory in Delhi?
While smart meters are not yet mandatory for all consumers, new connections, high-consumption households, and commercial users are being prioritized. The Delhi government has also encouraged voluntary adoption by highlighting benefits such as:
- Elimination of estimated bills
- Prepaid recharge options to control costs
- Faster resolution of power outages due to remote monitoring capabilities
Do smart meters reduce electricity bills?
The impact of smart meters on electricity bills depends on how consumers leverage real-time tracking features. By analysing usage patterns, consumers can:
- Shift high-energy consumption to off-peak hours to avoid peak pricing.
- Detect power wastage in appliances and optimise their energy use.
- Prevent unnecessary tariff hikes by staying within lower consumption slabs.
However, some consumers have raised concerns about sudden bill increases after smart meter installation. This is often due to:
- The elimination of estimated billing, which previously understated actual consumption.
- Real-time tracking reveals higher-than-expected usage patterns.
Despite these concerns, smart meters are expected to improve billing accuracy and empower consumers to manage electricity expenses more effectively in the long run.
Shifting to renewable energy sources
Delhi has been actively integrating renewable energy into its power grid to promote sustainability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As of September 2023, the city achieved an installed renewable energy capacity of 339 MW, comprising 255 MW from solar energy and 84 MW from waste-to-energy generation.
In February 2023, the Delhi government announced plans to increase the city’s power generation capacity by 6,000 MW over the next three years, focusing on renewable sources.
This initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the share of green energy in Delhi’s electricity consumption.
Notably, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL) reported that approximately 31% of its energy supply to the capital comes from renewable sources, amounting to 827 MW. TPDDL aims to increase this share to 1,515 MW by 2026-27, which would constitute 45% of its total energy portfolio.
These efforts reflect Delhi’s commitment to expanding renewable energy adoption, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the city.
Renewable energy and its impact on Delhi’s electricity tariffs
Delhi’s growing shift toward renewable energy, including solar and waste-to-energy projects, is poised to impact electricity tariffs and sustainability goals significantly in the long run. Here’s how:
- Tariff stabilization: The adoption of renewable energy sources reduces dependency on fossil fuels, minimizing the impact of fluctuating global fuel prices on electricity tariffs. Over time, this could lead to more stable electricity rates for consumers.
- Subsidy reduction potential: As renewable energy production becomes more cost-effective, the financial burden on government subsidies could decrease, enabling more efficient allocation of resources.
- Greener energy mix: Increasing the share of green energy in Delhi’s electricity grid helps reduce carbon emissions and aligns with national goals for sustainability. Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL) is already sourcing 31% of its power from renewables, aiming to increase this to 45% by 2027.
- Long-term savings: While initial investments in renewable energy infrastructure may increase costs, the operational expenses for renewable sources like solar are significantly lower, promising long-term financial benefits for consumers.
This strategic shift not only supports environmental sustainability but also provides a path to affordable and reliable energy for Delhi’s growing population.
How to reduce electricity bill in Delhi?
Reducing your electricity bill in Delhi involves a mix of smart consumption habits, efficient appliances, and taking advantage of government subsidies. Start by tracking your usage regularly—especially if you’re nearing the 200-unit threshold, beyond which electricity is no longer free. Installing energy-efficient LED lights, inverter ACs, and 5-star rated appliances can significantly reduce your monthly units.
Use high-energy appliances like geysers, washing machines, and microwaves during off-peak hours to avoid sudden spikes. Turning off idle devices, switching to smart meters, and checking real-time consumption through DISCOM apps can help detect wastage.
Peak hours refer to the times of day when electricity demand is at its highest—typically in the morning (6 AM to 10 AM) and evening (6 PM to 11 PM) when most households are using lights, fans, kitchen appliances, and air conditioners simultaneously.
During these periods, DISCOMs may apply higher rates under Time-of-Day (ToD) or smart metering systems. By shifting your usage to off-peak hours, such as late night (10 PM to 6 AM) or midday, you can reduce consumption during high-tariff windows and potentially lower your electricity bill. Turning off idle devices, using smart meters, and monitoring your real-time consumption through DISCOM apps can also help spot wastage and manage usage more efficiently.
Also, make sure you’ve opted in for Delhi’s power subsidy. If your consumption is between 201–400 units, you may still get a 50% subsidy up to ₹800, which can halve your bill.
For larger homes or commercial units, consider investing in rooftop solar panels, which can offset a major portion of the daytime load. Over time, these measures not only lower your electricity bill but also promote sustainable living.
Time-of-Day (ToD) tariff in Delhi: Are you being charged more during peak hours?
Time-of-Day (ToD) tariffs are designed to reflect the real-time cost of electricity generation and demand. Instead of charging a flat per-unit rate throughout the day, ToD pricing applies different tariffs during peak and off-peak hours, encouraging users to shift consumption to non-peak times.
Is ToD applicable to residential users in Delhi?
As of 2025, ToD tariffs are not universally mandatory for all domestic consumers in Delhi. They are:
- Mandatory for high-load domestic connections (typically those with a sanctioned load of more than 10 kW or three-phase meters).
- Optional for regular residential users, especially those with smart meters who voluntarily opt in.
With the rollout of smart meters across Delhi, the infrastructure now supports flexible time-based pricing, and more consumers are expected to be covered under ToD in the coming years.
Peak and off-peak hours in Delhi
Under DERC guidelines, the following ToD slots apply:
| Time Slot | ToD Tariff Impact |
| 6 AM – 10 AM | Normal rate (base slab) |
| 6 PM – 11 PM | Peak hours (+20% surcharge) |
| 11 PM – 6 AM | Off-peak (-15% discount) |
| 10 AM – 6 PM | Normal rate (base slab) |
Note: Actual percentages may vary slightly based on DISCOMs (e.g., TPDDL, BRPL, BYPL) and updated DERC tariff orders.
Should you opt in for ToD?
If you are a residential user with high evening electricity consumption (e.g., air conditioners, geysers, or washing machines during 6–11 PM), you may end up paying more under ToD. However, if you can shift usage to late-night or early-morning hours, ToD can help reduce your bill by 10–20%, especially with energy-intensive appliances.
To opt in, contact your DISCOM through their smart meter portal or mobile app and enable ToD billing on your account.
Can you install more than one meter in a single home?
Yes, under certain conditions, a property in Delhi can have more than one electricity meter—but only if multiple legally separate households or units exist within the premises. This is tightly regulated by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to prevent misuse of subsidies.
When is a second meter allowed?
- When the premises has clearly demarcated units (e.g., ground floor and first floor occupied by different families).
- Each unit must have independent access, kitchen, and sanitation facilities.
- The second applicant must be a different legal entity or tenant with separate documentation (rent agreement, ID, etc.).
What is not allowed?
- Installing two meters in the same residential unit (e.g., one for the bedroom and one for the kitchen) is prohibited.
- Using multiple meters to split consumption and avail subsidy multiple times for the same household is considered fraudulent.
DERC Guidelines & Penalties:
- As per DERC and DISCOM norms, any meter installed without valid justification may be disconnected.
- In case of subsidy misuse, the consumer may:
- Be billed retrospectively at the highest applicable rate
- Face revocation of subsidy benefits
- Be prosecuted under the Electricity Act, 2003 for fraudulent use
What defines a ‘separate household’?
According to DERC, a separate household must:
- Be structurally independent (no internal staircase or passage)
- Have its own entrance from outside or shared corridor
- Have a separate kitchen and sanitary facility
- Be occupied by a distinct family or individual, not just for billing manipulation
Note: If you’re applying for a second meter, DISCOMs may conduct a physical inspection before granting approval.
Electricity usage by common appliances (Approximate)
| Appliance | Power Usage (Watts) | Units per Hour (kWh) | Usage Level |
| Air Conditioner (1.5 Ton) | 1500–2000 W | 1.5–2.0 kWh | 🔴 Very High |
| Water Heater / Geyser | 2000–3000 W | 2.0–3.0 kWh | 🔴 Very High |
| Microwave Oven | 1000–1500 W | 1.0–1.5 kWh | 🔴 High |
| Washing Machine (Heater On) | 1000–2000 W | 1.0–2.0 kWh | 🔴 High |
| Refrigerator (Frost-Free) | 100–400 W (avg) | 0.2–0.5 kWh | 🟡 Moderate |
| LED TV (40-55 inch) | 100–150 W | 0.1–0.15 kWh | 🟢 Low |
| Ceiling Fan | 60–80 W | 0.06–0.08 kWh | 🟢 Low |
| LED Bulb (9W) | 9 W | 0.009 kWh | 🟢 Very Low |
| Wi-Fi Router | 6–10 W | 0.006–0.01 kWh | 🟢 Very Low |
Tip: Running high-consumption devices during off-peak hours or limiting their use can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bill—especially if you’re nearing Delhi’s 200-unit subsidy threshold.
Can you install more than one meter in a single home?
Yes, under certain conditions, a property in Delhi can have more than one electricity meter—but only if multiple legally separate households or units exist within the premises. This is tightly regulated by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to prevent misuse of subsidies.
When is a second meter allowed?
- When the premises has clearly demarcated units (e.g., ground floor and first floor occupied by different families).
- Each unit must have independent access, kitchen, and sanitation facilities.
- The second applicant must be a different legal entity or tenant with separate documentation (rent agreement, ID, etc.).
What is not allowed?
- Installing two meters in the same residential unit (e.g., one for the bedroom and one for the kitchen) is prohibited.
- Using multiple meters to split consumption and avail subsidy multiple times for the same household is considered fraudulent.
DERC Guidelines & Penalties:
- As per DERC and DISCOM norms, any meter installed without valid justification may be disconnected.
- In case of subsidy misuse, the consumer may:
- Be billed retrospectively at the highest applicable rate
- Face revocation of subsidy benefits
- Be prosecuted under the Electricity Act, 2003 for fraudulent use
What defines a ‘separate household’?
According to DERC, a separate household must:
- Be structurally independent (no internal staircase or passage)
- Have its own entrance from outside or shared corridor
- Have a separate kitchen and sanitary facility
- Be occupied by a distinct family or individual, not just for billing manipulation
Note: If you’re applying for a second meter, DISCOMs may conduct a physical inspection before granting approval.
Housing.com POV
As Delhi’s electricity ecosystem evolves, the true challenge isn’t just affordability—it’s awareness. Knowing your slab, opting in for subsidies, and reading your bill beyond the total amount are not optional anymore. With smart meters, renewable integration, and real-time billing, power consumption in Delhi is shifting from passive usage to active responsibility. The smarter consumer—who tracks, optimises, and adapts—is the one who will pay less, waste less, and live more sustainably.
FAQs
How to reduce electricity bills in Delhi?
If you want to reduce your electricity bill in Delhi, try switching to energy-efficient appliances, switching off lights when not in use, etc. You can also install solar panels.
How is the tariff calculated in Delhi?
The tariff is calculated on the basis of consumption every month. The more electricity you use, the higher the tariff rate will be imposed per unit.
Is a 200-unit electricity bill free in Delhi?
Yes, residents of Delhi get free electricity up to usage of 200 units.
What is the subsidy for using 400 units of electricity in Delhi?
Delhi residents who consume 201 to 400 monthly units get 50% capped at Rs 850.
Which city has the costliest electricity in India?
Mumbai has the costliest electricity in India.
What is the bill for 500 units in Delhi?
The tariff rate in Delhi is Rs 6.50 per unit from 401 to 500 units, and Rs 8 per unit for 501 to 600 units.
Can I have more than one electricity meter in one house in Delhi?
Yes, you can apply for more than one meter in Delhi.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |