Delhi Homes Save Big 93 Percent Get Power Subsidy Relief
Updated on Jan - 06 - 2026, 04:30 AM
In a significant development for residents of the national capital, over 93 percent of households in Delhi benefited from the city governments electricity subsidy scheme in December 2025, marking the widest reach of the programme so far. Official figures show that nearly 58.7 lakh out of around 63 lakh domestic electricity consumers availed the subsidy during the month. Notably, more than 73 percent of households paid no electricity bill at all, offering substantial financial relief to families across income groups.
The electricity subsidy scheme, launched by the Delhi government in 2019, was designed to reduce the burden of rising power costs on ordinary citizens. Under the policy, households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month receive a full waiver on their bill, while those using between 201 and 400 units are eligible for a 50 percent subsidy. Consumers who exceed this limit are required to pay the full tariff, encouraging controlled and mindful electricity usage.
Officials attribute the sharp rise in beneficiaries partly to winter conditions, when electricity consumption naturally declines. With reduced dependence on power intensive appliances such as air conditioners, many households managed to keep their usage within the eligible limits. Experts also point out that growing awareness about the scheme and more careful consumption habits have contributed to the sustained increase in coverage.
Throughout the previous year, an average of about 80 percent of domestic consumers benefited from the subsidy each month. The December 2025 figures, however, surpassed all earlier records, highlighting a consistent pattern of moderate power usage among residents. Authorities believe this trend reflects both the effectiveness of the scheme and a shift towards energy conscious behaviour.
Despite its popularity, the subsidy places a considerable financial load on the state exchequer. Government estimates suggest that the power subsidy cost for the 2025 26 financial year is likely to cross 4000 crore rupees, the highest so far. While funds were allocated in the annual budget, additional support has been sought to clear pending payments.
Supporters of the scheme say it has helped millions of middle class and low income families manage household expenses during uncertain economic times. Critics, however, stress the need for careful fiscal planning and recommend combining subsidies with stronger energy efficiency measures to ensure long term sustainability.