Minister plays down possibility of electricity tariff increase

COLOMBO (News 1^st) - Following an event held at the Katunayake Free Trade Zone yesterday (May 12), journalists questioned Power and Renewable Energy Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, on whether an electricity tariff hike is also on the cards. Responding to the question Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya stated that it is not the case at present. He said they always decide on the electricity tariffs with the utmost consideration given to the consumers in this country. He stated that although the Electricity Board is a commercial institution, he believes it is the largest welfare institution in the country. According to the minister, the price per unit is about 17 or 18 rupees and with the increase in fuel prices, this may increase a little. He stated that they sell electricity to low-income consumers at 4 rupees per unit and that there is no need to be curious about it as they will always take the best decision.