The hot weather in April caused a significant increase in electricity bills for households in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, with bills increasing by 20-50% compared to March. Mr. Nhat from Nha Be district of HCMC was shocked to see his electricity bill nearly double the average of previous months and increase 30% compared to March due to the high demand for cooling equipment.
Similarly, Mr. Cao from Go Vap also experienced a sharp increase in his electricity bill despite maintaining a temperature above 26-28 degrees Celsius as recommended. Many households in both cities were caught off guard by the sudden increase in their bills, which were higher than the same period last year. The increased demand for electricity during the heatwave led to a surge in usage, contributing to the steep rise in bills.
The Electricity Regulatory Authority reported that electricity consumption set new records in April, with consumption reaching almost 1 billion kWh. The prolonged hot weather in the South increased the demand for cooling equipment, leading to higher energy consumption. Additionally, the stepped tariff system implemented also contributed to higher electricity bills experienced by consumers.
Many consumers have expressed frustration with current pricing structures and called for reforms. Experts argue that the progressive pricing system has several disadvantages and propose alternative methods of calculating electricity bills. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is considering changing its current six-step tariff system into a five-step tariff system to address some issues raised by consumers.
In response to rising electricity bills and ongoing heat waves, consumers are encouraged to conserve energy and adjust their usage patterns. Using air conditioners efficiently, choosing energy-efficient models and regular maintenance of appliances can help reduce energy consumption significantly. Government officials and industry stakeholders are working on solutions to address consumer concerns and ensure fair pricing practices within the electrical sector.
Overall, while the hot weather has had an impact on electricity bills for many households across Vietnam, there are steps that can be taken by both consumers and stakeholders to mitigate this impact going forward.