Ethiopian Electric Service has announced that from April to June, electricity tariffs will increase for both consumption and service fees.
According to the statement, starting in April, residential customers consuming up to 0.50 kWh will see their tariff increase to 0.60 cents per kWh. Additionally, service fees will also rise, with postpaid customers paying 10 ETB and 95 cents, while prepaid customers will pay 4 ETB and 18 cents.
For residential customers:
- Those consuming between 51 and 100 kWh will now pay 1 ETB and 49 cents per kWh.
- Those using between 101 and 200 kWh will pay 2 ETB and 67 cents.
- Customers consuming between 201 and 300 kWh will be charged 3 ETB and 84 cents per kWh.
Service fees will also vary based on consumption. The maximum charge for postpaid users will be 45 ETB and 80 cents, while prepaid users will pay 15 ETB and 97 cents.
Bahiru Olijira, Executive Director of Energy Supply and Distribution Regulation at the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, confirmed that these tariff adjustments will take place every three months, beginning in April.
The adjustments will apply to various sectors, including residential, commercial, small and medium industries, and street lighting.
Previously, from January to March, residential customers consuming up to 0.50 kWh were charged 0.52 cents per kWh, while postpaid service fees were 10 ETB and 71 cents, and prepaid service fees were 4 ETB and 1 cent.
For commercial, small and medium industries, and street lighting, payments will continue based on assigned usage brackets. The Ethiopian Electric Service aims to gradually implement these changes every three months to avoid sudden financial burdens on the public, according to Melaku Taye, the institution’s Communication Executive.
The cost-reflective tariff, which accounts for increased power generation costs, will bring the price per kWh to 6.01 ETB after four years.
“Dear Leaders of Ethiopia
As you are aware, our people have endured immense hardships over the past six years due to both natural and man-made challenges. The outbreak of COVID-19, ongoing conflicts in the north and west, and the displacement of millions have placed a heavy burden on families struggling to rebuild their lives.
With the upcoming tariff increase by the Ethiopia Electric and Power Authority in April, we are deeply concerned about the affordability of electricity for our people. Many are already facing economic hardships and cannot bear additional financial strain. At the same time, we also observe significant power wastage in the city, which raises questions about efficiency and responsible resource management.
Given these circumstances, we kindly ask for a fair and balanced approach. Would it not be more just to prioritize reducing wastage and improving efficiency before increasing tariffs? Our people deserve a solution that considers their struggles while ensuring sustainable energy management.
We appreciate your leadership and hope for a decision that reflects compassion and fairness for all.”