The levying of tariff on peak load charges in Haryana has irked industrialists in the state who are alleging that industry in the state could be rendered uncompetitive because of increasing input costs.
The tariff has increased the input costs for manufacturing units in Haryana, creating an imbalance in conditions for industry in contrast to neighbouring states.
Haryana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HCCI) which recently met members of state regulatory commission have demanded changes in the peak load hours.
HCCI President Satish Gupta maintained the peak load hours have been increased from 2 hours to 8 hours. The peak load generally refers to when maximum electricity is drawn by users.
HCCI Vice President Rajneesh Garg maintained levying of peak load charges on industries was hurting industry in the state to compete at par with neighbouring states. He added that the way charges were being levied was also not rational.
HCCI (Panchkula region) Chairman Vishnu Goel maintained peak load charges were levied for agriculture priority but when the priority was not there, the charges should be removed. Similarly as the tariff are levied on peak load, the tariff should be reduced during lean period as was the case in some other states, he added.