New Delhi: In a significant achievement for Bihar’s power sector, North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd. (NBPDCL) and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd. (SBPDCL) have together recorded a historic reduction in Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) loss, bringing it down from 19.94% in FY 2023-24 to 15.50% in FY 2024-25. This marks the first time that Bihar’s AT&C loss has fallen below the national average of all DISCOMs in India, establishing a new milestone in operational performance. NBPDCL has achieved an estimated AT&C loss of 14.5%, while SBPDCL has brought it down to 17%, showcasing the commitment and efficiency of both distribution companies.
This milestone is the result of consistent, multi-dimensional efforts taken by both DISCOMs to enhance overall efficiency and service delivery. Improved operational reliability across the network, timely release of new service connections, and a strong focus on accurate and transparent billing have played a crucial role in winning consumer trust and improving revenue realisation. Strategic system strengthening and infrastructure improvements undertaken under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) have also contributed significantly to reducing technical losses and enhancing supply reliability. The effectiveness of consumer grievance redressal mechanisms and stronger communication channels between DISCOMs and consumers have further reinforced the consumer-centric approach that underpins these achievements. All these measures have worked in tandem to improve system accountability and performance on the ground.
These initiatives have also translated into national-level recognition, with NBPDCL receiving an ‘A’ rating and SBPDCL a ‘B+’ rating in the latest Consumer Service Ratings issued by the Ministry of Power, reaffirming the significant progress made in service quality and consumer satisfaction.
As a result of these sustained efforts, the DISCOMs have achieved a record revenue collection of ₹17,114 crore in FY 2024-25, marking a significant growth of approximately 13% compared to ₹15,109 crore collected in the previous financial year.
Hon’ble Energy Minister of Bihar, Shri Bijendra Prasad Yadav, praised this achievement and credited the vision of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar. He stated, “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble CM Shri Nitish Kumar, Bihar’s power sector has scaled new heights. From a staggering AT&C loss of 59.15% in FY 2004-05 to just 15.5% in FY 2024-25, Bihar has set a benchmark for performance and accountability. Such sustained progress is unmatched and demonstrates the state’s determined pursuit of reform, transparency, and consumer-centric governance.This remarkable milestone reinforces our deep commitment to ensuring quality and reliable electricity to every household and enterprise across Bihar. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all DISCOM employees for this achievement and express sincere gratitude to the people of Bihar for their continued faith and support”
Secretary, Energy Department & CMD, BSPHCL, Shri Pankaj Pal, while expressing his views on this landmark achievement, congratulated all employees of the DISCOMs for their commitment and hard work. He said, “Achieving an AT&C loss of 15.5%—which is lower than the national average of all DISCOMs—is a landmark achievement, especially considering that more than 85% of our consumer base is in rural areas. A 4.5% reduction in a single financial year is a remarkable feat and reflects the collective determination of our teams, a strong consumer-first approach, and systemic improvements across the sector. Going forward, we remain committed to delivering reliable and quality power supply, ensuring accurate billing, and addressing consumer grievances with greater efficiency. Consumers will continue to remain at the heart of our operations as we build on this success with renewed focus and responsibility.”