PUC still awaiting Treasury response

Bearing up CEB losses

By Ifham Nizam

The Public Utility Commission of Sri Lanka is waiting for the written response from the Treasury Department regarding its readiness to bear any loss incurred by the Ceylon Electricity Board.

PUCSL Chairman Jayatissa de Costa told The Island yesterday that the commission has given seven alternatives to the Treasury on CEB losses.

PUCSL submitted proposals regarding the increase of electricity tariffs by January 1. However, De Costa says it is up to the Treasury to decide whether to increase tariff charges or subsidize it.

He said that they were awaiting the reply of the Treasury, he added that there is no timeframe as such and could get the response anytime.

He said that that the electricity tariff can be maintained without amendments for six months.

He rejected reports that the cut off 90 units per month for the concessionary rates will be reduced to 30 units.

As more than 78 per cent of the electricity consumers are in the low income group they use less than 90 units per month, he said.

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