In a move to provide financial relief during the holy month of Ramadan, the State Electric Company (STELCO) has unveiled a 10% discount on electricity bills, effective from the first to the last day of Ramadan. This initiative aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to easing the financial burdens on Maldivian households during this significant period.
To streamline the billing process, STELCO will issue a single consolidated bill covering the entire month of Ramadan. The discount will be calculated based on the average consumption over the past nine months, excluding the three hottest months of the previous year, ensuring that the discount does not surpass this average. For customers without a prior billing history, a minimum 10% discount is guaranteed.
Recognizing the importance of accurate billing, over 350 STELCO employees, including top management, will commence meter readings tomorrow to account for unbilled days leading up to Ramadan. Customers will be granted a 30-day payment window for these bills. Typically, meter readings in Malé span approximately 12 days; however, this expedited effort will encompass usage from 12 to 27 days, depending on the last reading date in February.
At the conclusion of Ramadan, final readings will be taken to prepare the comprehensive monthly bill. This initiative aims to eliminate the existing 20 to 25-day lag between meter readings and bill issuance, addressing longstanding customer concerns. Starting in April, STELCO plans to conduct meter readings during the last week of each month, with bills dispatched the following day. This adjustment will enable customers to verify their bills against actual meter readings, enhancing transparency and trust in STELCO’s billing system.
This proactive measure reflects President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s dedication to supporting citizens during Ramadan and underscores STELCO’s commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
