Khaberni - The Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Energy and Mineral Regulatory Commission, Ziad Al-Saayida, confirmed that the increase in citizens' electricity consumption during the winter, and their transition to higher consumption tiers, significantly contributed to the increased cost of energy.
Al-Saayida clarified that the reason for the high electricity bills for the month of December is primarily due to increased consumption, not price hikes. He noted that the electricity tariff has not changed since 2022, according to Al-Mamlaka.
Al-Saayida indicated that the electrical load in December last saw a notable increase, with the rise ranging between 50 to 60% compared to October and November.
He explained that the electrical loads in October and November were around 2500 and 2600 megawatts respectively, while in December they jumped to between 3900 and 4200 megawatts.
Regarding the meter reading system, Al-Saayida pointed out that 95% of the electric meters are smart meters that operate electronically without the need for human intervention, confirming that the readings recorded are accurate and reflect the actual electricity consumption over 30 days, with no false or estimated readings.
On how to reduce high electricity bills, Al-Saayida urged citizens to use electrical appliances optimally and appropriately during the winter season, along with the necessity of maintaining electrical appliances regularly to ensure their efficiency.
He also called for setting air conditioners to 24 degrees Celsius, noting that this helps maintain natural electricity consumption without affecting the bill value.
Al-Saayida emphasized that the electric meter is the interface between the electricity company and the citizen, affirming that if electrical appliances are correctly calibrated, it will limit the increase in energy consumption.
Regarding citizens' complaints about electricity bills, Al-Saayida assured that the doors of the commission are open to receive any complaints or observations.
He explained that the commission has a specialized unit to receive complaints, where a team of engineers visits homes, conducts inspections of meters and electrical appliances present in the house to identify any faults, if found.
