1 Unit Electricity Cost in Delhi (2026 BSES Tariff & Subsidy)
If you live in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, your electricity is likely distributed by BSES (BRPL/BYPL), Tata Power (TPDDL), or the NDMC. Delhi is famous across India for its highly subsidized electricity framework.
However, calculating the exact cost of 1 unit in Delhi is tricky. Depending on whether you cross the magic "400 unit" threshold, your effective cost per unit can jump from literally ₹0 to over ₹8 per unit. Let's break down the 2026 tariff structure.
Quick Answer
If you consume under 200 units and opted for the subsidy, 1 Unit costs ₹0. If you consume 201-400 units, the subsidized cost averages around ₹2.50 to ₹3.50 per Unit. If you consume over 400 units, you lose the subsidy entirely, and the effective cost (including PPAC and fixed charges) jumps to ₹7.50 to ₹8.50 per Unit.
Delhi Residential Tariff Slabs (2026)
The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) sets the base tariffs. Here is the raw base rate *before* the government subsidy is applied:
| Consumption Slab | Base Energy Charge (per Unit) | Subsidy Status (If Opted In) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 200 Units | ₹3.00 | 100% Free (Zero Bill) |
| 201 to 400 Units | ₹4.50 | 50% Subsidy (Max ₹800) |
| 401 to 800 Units | ₹6.50 | 0% Subsidy (Full Rate) |
| Above 800 Units | ₹7.00 - ₹8.00 | 0% Subsidy (Full Rate) |
The "400 Unit" Trap
It is crucial to understand that the Delhi subsidy is a cliff. It is not progressive across all slabs.
If you consume exactly 400 units, you receive the 50% subsidy (up to ₹800 discount). Your bill might be around ₹1,000. However, if you run the AC for one extra day and your meter hits 401 units, you immediately lose the subsidy for the *entire* bill. You are now billed at the full commercial-like rate for all 401 units, and your bill will suddenly jump to almost ₹3,000.
What is PPAC? (The Hidden Surcharge)
If you look closely at a BSES bill, you will see a massive addition called PPAC (Power Purchase Adjustment Cost). In Delhi, DISCOMs are allowed to charge this variable percentage (sometimes ranging from 9% to over 30% depending on the season and regulatory orders) to cover the fluctuating cost of coal and gas.
So if your base energy charge is ₹6.50 (in the 401-800 slab), a 20% PPAC pushes the actual energy charge to ₹7.80 per unit, before fixed charges and the 5% electricity duty are even added.
Important: You Must Opt-In
As of recent policy changes, the Delhi electricity subsidy is no longer applied automatically to everyone. If you want the zero bill for under 200 units, you must proactively register your CA Number (found on your bill) with the government via the official missed call number or WhatsApp. If you don't opt-in, you will pay the full tariff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is electricity still free in Delhi in 2026?
Yes, but only if you opt-in. If your monthly consumption is between 0 and 200 units, your electricity bill is zero. If you consume between 201 and 400 units, you get a 50% subsidy (up to ₹800).
What is the cost of 1 unit of electricity in Delhi without subsidy?
Without any subsidy, the base energy charge for the first 200 units is ₹3.00 per unit. For 201-400 units, it is ₹4.50. Above 400 units, it jumps to ₹6.50 per unit, plus PPAC and fixed charges.
What is PPAC in a Delhi electricity bill?
PPAC stands for Power Purchase Adjustment Cost. It is a surcharge (usually a percentage) added to your bill by DISCOMs like BSES to cover the fluctuating cost of fuel used in power plants.
Do I have to pay fixed charges if my bill is zero?
If your consumption is under 200 units and you have opted for the subsidy, the Delhi government covers the entire bill amount, including the fixed charges and taxes. Your final payable amount is ₹0.
How do I apply for the Delhi electricity subsidy?
You must proactively opt-in by giving a missed call to the official government number or applying via the BSES WhatsApp number. It is no longer applied automatically.
Calculate Your Exact Delhi Bill
Input your consumed units and our calculator will automatically process the Delhi slabs, the 400-unit subsidy drop-off, and the taxes to give you a highly accurate estimate.
Use the Electricity Bill Calculator