Discover all you need to know about the Tamil Nadu Electricity Subsidy Scheme 2025. Learn who qualifies for 100 units of free electricity, how to claim your subsidy online via TANGEDCO, and get insights for households, renters, and rural consumers.
Real-Life Story:
In Tirunelveli’s small suburb, Selvi, a 45-year-old widow who runs a tailoring shop from her one-room house, dreaded her monthly electricity bills that often ate into her modest income. But since she registered for Tamil Nadu’s 100-unit free electricity scheme, her burden has lightened. “I didn’t know the government gave subsidy for small consumers like me,” she says, smiling as she checks her latest TANGEDCO message showing zero due. “I can save ₹300 every month—that means more books for my daughter.”
Selvi’s story is one among millions in Tamil Nadu who have benefited from the Electricity Subsidy Scheme, designed to make energy affordable and ensure equity among every household and small business.
Tamil Nadu Electricity Subsidy Scheme 2025 – Overview
The Tamil Nadu Electricity Subsidy Scheme 2025, also called the 100 Units Free Electricity Plan, covers approximately 2.4 crore domestic connections across the state. It remains one of the most substantial welfare initiatives under the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) and TANGEDCO (Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation).
Under this ongoing program, households consuming up to 100 units of electricity every two months (bi-monthly billing cycle) qualify for free electricity, while the next 100 units (101–200) are billed at 50% of the regular tariff if overall usage stays within 500 units per cycle.
This ensures that low-income and economically moderate families continue to access electricity at subsidised rates even as tariff adjustments align with inflation.
Key Features of the Scheme
- 100 Units Free Benefit: Every domestic connection gets the first 100 units completely free every two months.
- Half Tariff for Next Slab: The next 100 units (up to 200) are charged at 50% of the standard rate if total consumption stays below 500 units.
- State-Funded Subsidy: The Tamil Nadu government pays Rs. 16,000 crore annually to TANGEDCO to offset the power tariff difference.
- Automatic Enrolment: All regular household consumers are automatically included if their billing account is active and Aadhaar-linked.
- Fair Distribution Policy: From 2025, each property can claim the subsidy only once, even if it has multiple electricity meters.
- No Change for Domestic Consumers: TANGEDCO confirmed the scheme will continue indefinitely with no withdrawal planned.
Who Qualifies for the Subsidy in 2025
| Category | Eligibility Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Households | Permanent residents of Tamil Nadu with TNEB connection | 100 units free + 50% concession up to 200 units |
| Huts and Rural Beneficiaries | Low consumption users registered under domestic “Hut Service” | Fully subsidised supply (up to fixed limits) |
| Tenants | Eligible if Aadhaar is linked to one meter in the rented property | Requires consent or tenant verification |
| Farmers | Continue to receive 100% free electricity for agricultural pumps | Not affected by residential changes |
| Cottage & Tiny Industries | Subsidised rates for up to 50kW load limit | Verified under cottage category |
Example – Monthly Bill Impact
If a household in Coimbatore uses 400 units bi-monthly, here’s how the bill is computed (July 2025 tariff):
| Slab | Units | Rate (₹) | Subsidy | Net Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–100 | 100 | Free | 100% | ₹0 |
| 101–200 | 100 | 4.95 × 50% | 50% | ₹247.50 |
| 201–300 | 100 | 6.65 | Nil | ₹665 |
| Total | 300 | — | — | ₹912.50 |
Without subsidy, this same user would have paid ₹1,300+, meaning a savings of roughly ₹400 every two months.
Official Changes in 2025
According to Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC):
- Tariffs increased by 3.16% from July 2025, but the government fully absorbed this hike for domestic and agricultural users.
- The “One Meter – One Subsidy” policy was implemented to prevent misuse.
- Multi-tenement residential buildings (up to 12 homes & 3 floors, without lifts) also receive subsidy support.
Steps to Claim or Verify Subsidy
Existing Consumers:
No fresh application required — the subsidy applies automatically to all active domestic electricity connections.
For Tenants or New Connections:
- Visit TANGEDCO’s official portal at http://www.tangedco.gov.in.
- Go to Consumer Services → Apply for Subsidy / Aadhaar Linking.
- Enter your Consumer Number and registered mobile number.
- Upload required documents – Aadhaar card, rent agreement, or ownership proof.
- Submit form. Verification updates will appear in 5–10 working days.
Offline Option:
You can also visit your nearest TNEB section office with your recent electricity bill and Aadhaar copy. CSC counters assist with Aadhaar linking or correction requests.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar card (for both owner and tenant, if applicable)
- Proof of residence (ration card, voter ID, or rental agreement)
- Latest electricity bill copy
- Bank passbook (for linkage in specific districts)
Financial Impact of the Scheme
| Year | Total Subsidy Budget (₹ Crore) | No. of Beneficiary Consumers (Crore) | Average Monthly Benefit per Family (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023–24 | 15,291 | 2.27 | 280 |
| 2024–25 | 15,291 | 2.4 | 310 |
| 2025–26 | 16,274 | 2.45 | 330 |
| Source: TNERC Tariff Report 2025 |
Real-Life Impact:
Murugan & Lakshmi, small farmers from Dindigul, run a household that consumes 150 units bi-monthly. “We never paid for electricity all year. Government subsidy helped us buy a refrigerator for the first time,” Murugan says with gratitude.
In Chennai, small business owner Anitha, who runs a home bakery, uses about 450 units each cycle. Her subsidy saves her roughly ₹1,200 annually, enough to cover her child’s school stationery.
Benefits and Importance
- Protects Low-Income Homes: Provides stability amidst inflation and tariff reviews.
- Encourages Energy Conservation: Keeps consumption optimal to stay within 500-unit cap.
- Promotes Digital Transparency: Aadhaar and online billing ensure misuse prevention.
- Rural Empowerment: Ensures equal access even in remote villages without burdening farmers.
- Eco-Linked: Pairs with solar initiatives for broader clean energy adoption.
Common Reasons for Subsidy Rejection
- Multiple meters linked to one property.
- Aadhaar not linked with consumer number.
- Ownership information mismatch.
- Connection listed under commercial instead of domestic category.
To fix issues, visit your local TNEB office or file an online support ticket under “Consumer Grievance Redressal”.
FAQs – Tamil Nadu Electricity Subsidy Scheme 2025: Who Qualifies & How to Claim
1. Who qualifies for the Tamil Nadu 100 units free electricity subsidy in 2025?
All domestic households with a valid TNEB (Tamil Nadu Electricity Board) connection qualify for 100 units free every bi-monthly billing cycle, provided consumption stays within the prescribed limits and Aadhaar is linked to the account.
2. Do tenants or renters qualify for the electricity subsidy?
Yes, tenants qualify if their rental meter is Aadhaar-linked and not claimed by another occupant of the same property, subject to owner/tenant verification.
3. Are agricultural and cottage industry users covered under the subsidy scheme?
Farmers with agricultural connections and cottage/tiny industries (with up to 50kW load) continue to receive subsidized rates or free power as per state policy.
4. Is there a limit to how many connections per household can get the subsidy?
From 2025, only one property connection is eligible for the subsidy, even if there are multiple meters or tenants linked to the same address.
5. How do I claim or verify my electricity subsidy status?
Existing household consumers receive the subsidy automatically. New applicants or those changing address/meter details must verify Aadhaar linkage and eligibility via the TANGEDCO website or local TNEB office.
6. What documents are needed for subsidy application or verification?
You’ll need your Aadhaar card, latest electricity bill, proof of residence (ration card/rental agreement), and sometimes owner consent if you’re a tenant.
7. How can I check if my meter is Aadhaar linked for subsidy?
Visit TANGEDCO’s official portal and enter your consumer number; you can also inquire at your nearest TNEB office.
8. Will the subsidy be withdrawn or revised in 2025?
Government notifications in 2025 confirm the subsidy’s continuation; however, misuse or policy abuse may be subject to review.
9. What can disqualify my household from getting the subsidy?
Multiple meters linked to one property, commercial listing, or missing Aadhaar linkage may disqualify the account until rectified.
10. Is there any special subsidy for huts or rural connections?
Yes, rural huts and low-consumption households (under Hut Service) receive fully subsidized supply up to specific limits set by the government.
11. How much can I realistically save through this scheme per year?
Typical urban households save ₹2,000–₹5,000 per year if consumption stays within subsidy slab; exact amount depends on usage and local rates.
12. How long does subsidy verification take if you submit documents?
Online verification usually takes 5–10 working days; offline applications may take slightly longer depending on office processing.
13. What should I do if my subsidy stops unexpectedly?
Check your Aadhaar and consumer number linkage, confirm property status, and contact TNEB for clarification or to file a grievance.
Call to Action
Are you a Tamil Nadu resident yet to confirm your free 100-unit electricity benefit? Don’t let your subsidy go unclaimed!
Visit the official TANGEDCO website or your nearest TNEB Office today. Verify your Aadhaar linking, confirm your consumer number, and ensure your account qualifies for 100 units of free power every billing cycle.
Energy saved is money earned — and the Tamil Nadu government’s subsidy ensures that every home lights up with affordability and dignity.
Disclaimer: This article is based on personal experience and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Readers are advised to do their own research or consult a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.
