An Emergency Motion submitted to the Parliament has called for equal electricity services in the capital Male' and the islands.
The motion was submitted by the MP for Thoddu Constituency Hussain Shian.
Speaking after submitting the motion, MP Shian said that both Stelco and Fenaka are using higher billing rates for electricity usage in the islands compared to the capital. He said that this in turn is negatively impacting small businesses like guest houses and other businesses on the islands.
MP Shian said businesses also have to pay taxes and salaries and make no profit after paying their electricity bills. He indicated that most of these businesses were being operated at a loss.
The motion noted the rates for electricity units used in Male' which include;
- 0-100 units: MVR 3.30
- 101-300 units: MVR 3.35
- 301-500 units: MVR 3.65
- 501-600 units: MVR 4
- 501-3000 units: MVR 4.35
- 30001-10000 units: MVR 5.75
- Higher than 10000 units: MVR 6.65
The motion also noted the billing rates for electricity usage in Male'
- 0-100 units: MVR 3.25
- 101-200 units: MVR 3.35
- 201-300 units: MVR 4.75
- Higher than 300 units: MVR 6
MP Shian said if authorities are unable to equalize the billing rate for electricity in Male' and the islands, then they should lower the taxes in the islands. He further called on the parliament to summon all the relevant organizations to one of its committees and find a solution for the issue.
Most of the MPs present at today's parliament session voiced their backing for the motion and called on authorities to lower the price of electricity.
