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Mangalore, Jan 23: The Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) on Tuesday announced reduction in domestic power tariffs in the districts that come under Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Company (CESC) and Mangalore Electricity Supply Company (MESC).

KERC in its tariff order for the year 2007-08, copies of which were released to the media, has reduced the tariff for domestic consumers ranging from 5 paise to 35 paise under various categories. The reduction comes in the wake of high-energy availability from hydro stations and surplus funds in both companies, the release said.

While Bhagya Jyoti, Kutir Jyoti tariffs have been reduced by 30 paise in the CESC, it is 24 paise less in the MESC. Likewise, for domestic consumers in urban areas in both the escoms, the reduction is 5-10 paise per unit and in village panchayat areas, the reduction is 10-20 paise per unit.

For use of solar heaters, the rebate was increased to 50 paise from the existing 40 paise, subject to a ceiling of Rs 50 per month. The duration of the off-season facility for seasonal industries, mainly rice millers, has been extended to six months from the existing three months.

Continuing with the special incentive scheme for HT industries, the commission has reduced the rate from 380 paise per unit to 355 paise per unit.

In a relief to industries, the commission has removed the TOD tariff which was levied for using power during peak hours (9 am to 12 noon).