Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the state legislative assembly on Friday that an unprecedented surge in domestic power usage, driven by extreme heat, has forced many families into higher tariff slabs. He cited complaints from cities such as Thane, Kalyan, Badlapur and Ambarnath about soaring electricity bills.

Mahavitaran Study Findings

The state electricity board compared temperature and consumption data for May 2025 and May 2026. A one‑bedroom flat that used 270 units last year recorded 415 units this summer, pushing the monthly bill from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000. Two‑bedroom flats saw usage jump from 425 to 655 units, with bills climbing from ₹4,500 to ₹8,000. The spike is largely attributed to continuous operation of air‑conditioners, fans and refrigerators.

Impact of the Tariff‑Slab System

Under Maharashtra’s slab‑wise tariff structure, households consuming up to 100 units enjoy subsidised rates, and those below 300 units receive modest concessions. However, once consumption exceeds the 300‑unit mark, rates effectively double, explaining the sudden bill surge. While the system ensures price transparency, it also amplifies cost pressures during heatwaves.

Rising Temperatures and Lack of Rainfall

May’s average temperature rose from 38.3°C in 2025 to a scorching 43°C this year. In the previous May, Thane received about 200 mm of rain, offering relief and reducing AC usage. This year, the absence of comparable rainfall forced households to rely heavily on cooling appliances, driving up electricity demand.

Looking Ahead

Energy‑efficiency experts urge the state to promote higher‑efficiency appliances, incentivise solar adoption, and deploy smart meters for real‑time monitoring. Mahavitaran should also consider timely relief mechanisms based on consumption spikes, ensuring consumers are not unduly burdened by weather‑driven cost spikes.