The Electricity Regulatory Commission (ERC) has upheld the Nepal Electricity Authority’s (NEA) decision to collect outstanding dues related to ‘dedicated’ and ‘trunk line’ electricity tariffs from two industrial firms.
During a hearing on complaints filed by Panchakanya Plastic Industries Pvt. Ltd. and Panchakanya Steel, the ERC ruled that the NEA’s actions were legally valid and declined to issue an interim order in favor of the industries.
Both companies had long refused to pay tariff charges for dedicated and trunk power lines supplied by the NEA. The authority had given them a 21-day ultimatum before disconnecting their electricity supply on October 21 and 22. The industries later submitted an application to the ERC after paying the first installment of the outstanding dues as set by the NEA.
According to the commission, the case was heard by a bench led by ERC Chairperson Dr. Ram Prasad Dhital, along with four other members. Rajkumar Pokharel, Ramesh Kumar Ghimire, and Tularam Giri represented the NEA, while Rojan Khadka appeared on behalf of the industrial firms.
The ERC concluded that the NEA had imposed the tariff in accordance with prevailing laws and that disconnecting power for non-payment within the stated deadline was within its legal authority. The commission noted that if the industries remain dissatisfied with the ruling, they may pursue further legal remedies in court.
