The heat in April caused electricity bills in many households in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to increase by 20-50% compared to March, doubling the previous months. This sudden spike in electricity consumption has left many households shocked and frustrated.
One such household is that of Mr. Nhat in Nha Be district of HCMC, who was taken aback when his electricity bill nearly doubled in April, reaching almost 1.3 million VND. Despite using only two air conditioners and turning them on only in the evening to save energy, their usage needs had to be adjusted due to the intense heat in March and April, resulting in a record-high electricity bill for his household.
Similarly, Mr. Cao in Go Vap also experienced a significant increase in his electricity bill in April, despite following recommended guidelines for using air conditioning. Many households in both cities were caught off guard by the sudden rise in electricity bills, with amounts higher than the same period last year.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade is currently considering downgrading the tariff to five levels to address consumer concerns over pricing discrepancies caused by a 6-step progressive tariff system. This system charges higher prices for those who consume more electricity, which has been criticized as unreasonable by some customers. Experts have suggested abolishing the ladder tariff system altogether and implementing a one-price electricity calculation method to provide a fairer pricing structure for consumers. There is also a call to reduce cross-subsidy between production and living costs to ensure that consumers receive an equitable share of energy costs.
As the heat waves continue throughout May, it is crucial that customers take proactive steps to conserve energy and adjust their usage needs accordingly. Energy-saving practices such as using Inverter air conditioners and setting appropriate temperatures can help reduce electricity bills significantly. Continued education on energy conservation techniques and efficient use of appliances can also play a vital role mitigating the impact of rising electricity costs on consumers’ pockets.
In conclusion, while the hot weather has led to an increase in electricity bills across Vietnam, there are ways that consumers can take control of their usage needs while still enjoying affordable prices for their power needs. By adopting energy-saving practices and advocating for fairer pricing structures, customers can help protect themselves from unexpected expenses caused by extreme weather conditions or unfair pricing methods used by utility companies.
