Complete Guide to Reading Your Electricity Bill in India

Your electricity bill is a goldmine of information — most people only look at the total amount due. Learning to read each line helps you spot errors, understand consumption patterns, and choose the right tariff plan.

Consumer Number: Your unique 10–13 digit ID with the provider. Always quote this for any complaint or payment. Sanctioned Load (kW): The maximum power your connection is approved for. Exceeding it triggers penalty charges. Connected Load: What you actually have plugged in — should be ≤ sanctioned load.

Units Consumed (kWh): The core of your bill. 1 unit = 1 kWh = 1000W running for 1 hour. Your meter reads cumulative units; the bill shows the difference between previous and current readings. Energy Charges: Units × per-unit rate, calculated in slabs (e.g., 0–100 units at ₹4.50, 101–300 at ₹6.80, 300+ at ₹8.50).

Fixed Charges: A flat monthly fee based on sanctioned load — you pay this even with zero consumption. Fuel Adjustment Charge (FAC) / Fuel Surcharge: Variable charge that fluctuates with fuel costs. Electricity Duty: State government tax, usually 6–10% of energy charges. Meter Rent: ₹15–50/month if the meter is provided by the discom.

Due Date and Late Payment Surcharge: Pay before the due date — late fees are 1.5–2% per month. With SaveMyBill, every payment is made before the due date so you never lose money to surcharges.