DUSHANBE, December 26, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- The government is currently considering the issue of raising electricity rates for all categories of consumers beginning on January 1, 2010, according to the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT).

The source at a MEDT noted that the draft government resolution on raising electricity prices had been worked out by the MEDT and had already been endorsed by the interested ministries and organizations of the country.  Electricity prices are expected to rise 25 percent for all categories of consumers.

Electricity rates in Tajikistan usually rise twice a year – on January 1 and May 1.  This year, electricity prices for all electricity consumers, except Tajik Aluminum Company (Talco), were raised by 25 percent on January 1 and the second 25% rise was introduced on August 1.

Current electricity price for residential customers is 7.5 dirams per one kWh.