What Are Fixed Charges in MEPCO Bill?
What Are Fixed Charges on a MEPCO Bill?
Fixed charges are a mandatory monthly fee that every MEPCO consumer must pay regardless of how much electricity they use — even if they use zero units. They appear on your bill under "FIX CHARGES" in the MEPCO Charges section.
Why Do You Pay Fixed Charges?
Fixed charges cover the infrastructure and maintenance costs of keeping your electricity connection active:
- Maintaining the electricity distribution network (poles, transformers, cables)
- Meter maintenance and periodic replacement
- Administrative and billing costs
- Keeping your connection ready even when you use no electricity
How Much Are Fixed Charges?
For domestic consumers (A-1a tariff) in 2026:
- 1–50 units (Protected): Rs. 75 per month
- 1–100 units (Protected): Rs. 150 per month
- 101–200 units (Protected): Rs. 150 per month
- 201+ units (Non-Protected): Rs. 150 per month
Are Fixed Charges Subject to Taxes?
Yes. Fixed charges are included in the base amount on which GST (18%) and Electricity Duty (1.5%) are calculated. The effective cost is therefore higher than the stated fixed charge.
Are Fixed Charges the Same as Meter Rent?
No. They are separate items:
- Fixed Charges: Monthly infrastructure maintenance fee
- Meter Rent: Monthly rental charge for the electricity meter itself
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I get fixed charges removed from my MEPCO bill?
A: No. Fixed charges are mandatory for all active connections as set by NEPRA. They cannot be waived as long as your connection is active.
Q: Do fixed charges change with my slab?
A: Yes. The fixed charge varies slightly by consumption slab — Rs. 75 for 1–50 unit consumers and Rs. 150 for most others.
Q: Why am I paying fixed charges when I barely use electricity?
A: Fixed charges are for maintaining your connection, not for electricity consumed. They cover infrastructure costs regardless of usage.