KATHMANDU: The Electricity Regulatory Commission has upheld the Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) decision in the dispute over tariffs for “dedicated” and “trunk line” electricity supply, effectively siding with the NEA. The ruling comes amid pressure reportedly exerted by Energy Minister Kulman Ghising.
After hearing complaints filed by Panchakanya Plastic Industries Pvt. Ltd. and Panchakanya Steel, the commission concluded that the NEA’s move to collect outstanding dues was valid and declined to issue an interim order in favor of the industries. Both companies had long resisted paying tariffs for dedicated and trunk line services provided by the NEA.
The NEA had recently cut power supply to the industries after issuing a 21-day notice. It later asked the commission to order payment of the first installment of the arrears. According to the commission, the cases were reviewed by a bench led by Commission Chair Dr. Ram Prasad Dhital and four members.
During the hearing, Rajkumar Pokharel, Ramesh Kumar Ghimire, and Tularam Giri argued on behalf of the NEA, while Rojan Khadka represented the industrial firms.
The Commission ruled that the NEA had set the tariffs in accordance with legal provisions and that disconnecting electricity for non-payment within the specified timeframe was also legally justified. It added that if the industries are dissatisfied with the decision, they have the option of appealing the matter in court.
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