Gruha Jyothi - 0 Electricity Bill upto 200 units in Karnataka

How will the consumption data be calculated?

Energy Minister KJ George said the domestic consumer’s data for the previous year will be assessed by taking an average per month with an additional 10 per cent. The government is currently in the process of calculating this data and will soon calculate the average consumption data for each revenue register (RR)-numbered meter.

Who is eligible?

Minister George clarified that every individual is eligible for the scheme. To avail the benefits, consumers must link their Aadhaar card with their RR number. Tenants are required to provide proof of tenancy.

How to apply?

The application for the Gruha Jyoti scheme can be submitted through the Seva Sindhu portal. For those who are not tech-savvy, they can visit the nearest Bangalore One, Karnataka One, or Grama One for assisted services.

When can one apply?

The registration process will begin on June 15, with the benefits applicable to the July bill, which will be generated on August 1. This means consumers have to pay the June bill, which will be generated in July. However, the registration process closes on July 5. This means that residents can only apply between June 15 and July 5.

The Seva Sindhu platform offers over 200 services and can be accessed through computers and mobile devices. Applicants are required to provide their Aadhaar number for validation and their BESCOM account number. Owners do not need to provide additional details, while tenants must submit documents such as sale deeds, lease deeds, or other proof of tenancy. In case of any difficulty accessing the portal, Bangalore One centres can be visited.

How is the zero bill calculated?

Consumers whose consumption aligns with the average consumption of the previous year will receive a zero bill. However, if their bill exceeds the average, they will be required to pay for the additional units consumed (differential units). It is important to note that this should still be within the 200-unit limit. If consumption exceeds 200 units, the entire bill amount must be paid, as the Gruha Jyoti scheme will not be applicable.

For example, if a consumer’s average monthly consumption is 70 units, he will receive 77 units of free power per month (by calculating 10 per cent extra power). Assuming his monthly consumption amounts to 100 units, such a consumer has to pay for 23 units (100 - 77 = 23).



Will the monthly average be revised?

As of now, the average consumption for the previous year is being calculated. The decision regarding the revision of average consumption will be made in the future. The government possesses data for every consumer and will calculate accordingly.

Can the server handle extra traffic?

Efforts are being made to create additional server support to handle five times the traffic to prevent server crashes. This enhanced server is expected to support five to ten lakh applications per day. It is important to note that there is no Android or iPhone app available for Seva Sindhu, and the platform can only be accessed through web services.

How can tenants apply?

If the tenant’s Aadhaar card address is the same as the residency, then there is no need for any other proof. However, if the Aadhaar address is different, then tenants need to provide a copy of the lease agreement or voter ID. Registered or notary-registered lease agreements are not mandatory. Other documents, like a driving licence, passport, or ration card, are also applicable. However, RR numbers and Aadhaar cards are mandatory. In the event that any complaints of fraudulent activity arise, an investigation will be conducted.

How can apartment dwellers apply?

Regarding apartment complexes, if the RR number is in the builder’s name, apartment dwellers can provide proof of residency to avail the scheme’s benefits.

Is it applicable if the Aadhaar card address is outside the state?

George said that even individuals from other states residing in Bengaluru can apply for the scheme if they provide proof of their local address.


Reason for current delay in BESCOM Bills

Responding to complaints regarding the delayed distribution of bills, Minister George explained that there was some confusion during the introduction of the Gruha Jyoti scheme, causing the delay. However, now that clarity has been obtained, the issuance of bills will resume shortly.

Recent relocations or house shifts

Regarding individuals who have recently moved to a rental property or a new house, Minister George mentioned that these matters were not discussed in the previous cabinet meeting.
As these issues have now arisen, they will be revisited in the cabinet, and the Chief Minister’s approval will be sought. Currently, only 12 months’ data is being considered, and a final decision will be made regarding these cases.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gruha Jyoti

Q: Should I pay any fees while applying?
A: No fees are required to register on the Seva Sindhu website.

Q: Should I pay the electricity bill for the month of June?
A: Yes. The benefits of the scheme will be applicable from the meter reading date on or after August 1, 2023 (for July 2023 consumption).

Q: I have more than one electricity meter. Will I be eligible for all meters?
A: No. Only one meter per household is eligible for the scheme.

Q: After applying, will I get any acknowledgement?
A: Yes, an acknowledgement message from Seva Sindhu will be sent to the registered consumer via email or SMS.

Q: I have already applied for this scheme. When will the benefits start accruing to my account?
A: The bill issued in July 2023 will have to be paid without subsidy. The benefits of the scheme will be applicable from the meter reading date on or after August 1, 2023 (for July 2023 consumption).

Q: I am the owner of a shop. Can I also apply for the benefit of the scheme for my commercial establishment?
A: No. The scheme is only for residential households.

The domestic consumer’s data for the previous year will be assessed by taking an average per month with an additional 10 per cent

KJ George, Energy MInister

Q: Where can I find my account ID?
A: It is available on any of your monthly electricity bills.

Q: What if I have arrears? Am I still eligible for the scheme?
A: Yes. However, you must clear your arrears up to June 30, 2023 within three months. Otherwise, your connection will be disconnected.

Q: The bill is in my late father’s name. How can I apply for this scheme?
A: You need to transfer the connection to your name and then apply for the scheme. The name transfer can be done at the Jana Snehi Vidyuth service counters at all sub-divisions.