The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has announced a record electricity price hike of nearly 20 percent at the consumer level, effective from June 2026 and payable in July. Wholesale rates will rise by 19.85 percent, while retail prices for middle-income households in the fourth usage tier will increase by 19.95 percent. The average increase for low-tension users is 18.21 percent. BERC Chairman Jalal Ahmed announced the decision at a press conference, stating that the adjustment was made after reviewing current conditions. The government will still provide Tk 41,000 crore in subsidies to the power sector.

The decision follows public hearings held on May 19 and 20, where consumer groups strongly opposed the proposal. Despite earlier assurances from the energy minister that prices would not rise for two years, the commission approved the increase within four working days of the hearings. Consumers fear the hike will severely affect nearly 49.8 million users, raising living costs and impacting small industries, businesses, and households.

The new rates also affect irrigation, religious institutions, and battery charging, with higher peak-hour tariffs. Critics argue that corruption and inefficiency in the power sector, rather than subsidies, are driving the need for such increases.