Govt to probe complaints over inflated power bills

The government has ordered an investigation after consumers across Bangladesh reported unusually high electricity bills for June, with many alleging their charges doubled or tripled despite no significant increase in power consumption.

Complaints have come from both prepaid and postpaid users, while the issue has sparked widespread criticism on social media. The Power Division said customer complaints will be investigated and any billing errors corrected.

Several consumers claimed prepaid meters deducted money at an unusually high rate, while others said they received excessive monthly bills despite using electricity as usual. A separate case involving a Tk 25.7 million electricity bill issued to a customer in Habiganj was later attributed to a computer error by the Rural Electrification Board.

Consumer rights advocates said inflated bills could result from inaccurate meter readings, estimated billing or poor management. They called for an impartial investigation and greater transparency in the billing process.

Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) Energy Adviser Prof Dr M Shamsul Alam urged the authorities to ensure a technology-based and transparent billing system, saying consumers should not bear the burden of administrative mistakes.

Power Division Secretary Mirana Mahrukh said authorities have instructed all distribution companies to investigate complaints immediately and correct any clerical or technical errors. She warned that strict action would be taken if any irregularities or misconduct are found.

Officials said complaint cells have been kept active across the country to address consumer grievances, while the government has directed power distribution agencies to identify the causes of the unusually high bills and improve service delivery.