Complaints rise over high post-Ramadan electricity bills
During Ramadan, electricity bills were capped at MVR 400 under a policy announced by President Mohamed Muizzu.
Public complaints have increased following the issuance of electricity bills after the end of the Ramadan billing period, with households reporting higher charges.
During Ramadan, electricity bills were capped at MVR 400 under a policy announced by President Mohamed Muizzu. Bills for that period were calculated based on separate meter readings.
With the conclusion of Ramadan, regular billing has resumed. Customers in areas served by Fenaka Corporation have begun receiving their bills and sharing them on social media.
Some consumers have reported that their latest bills exceed those issued earlier this year. One customer stated that his bill was MVR 2,661 in January and MVR 1,855 in February, followed by MVR 400 during Ramadan. The most recent bill issued was MVR 3,659.
Others have also raised concerns over similar increases. One resident stated that a bill which had previously been around MVR 1,300 had risen to more than MVR 3,000.
Questions have also been raised regarding billing details, including due dates.
Fenaka has started issuing bills across islands under its service. State Electric Company Limited (STELCO), which supplies electricity in Malé and other areas, has not yet issued bills for the current cycle.
Utility providers have previously stated that increases in electricity bills may be linked to higher consumption. The Maldives is currently in a period of higher temperatures, which can affect electricity usage.
