Parliament has unanimously approved an urgent proposal calling for the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) to automatically notify subscribers when their power consumption moves into the third tariff band.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Bader Al Tamimi, aims to prevent bill shocks and strengthen consumer awareness.
Under the initiative, EWA would be required to send SMS messages or electronic notifications to subscribers immediately once their monthly consumption exceeds the limits of the first and second subsidised bands and enters the higher-priced tier.
“A large number of households reach the third band without realising that they have exceeded the subsidy limit,” Mr Al Tamimi said.
“This lack of awareness often results in a shock when the bill arrives. Early notification will give subscribers the chance to adjust their consumption and avoid sudden and heavy financial burdens.”
Mr Al Tamimi stressed that the proposal was driven by a desire to enhance transparency and support national efforts to regulate and rationalise energy consumption.
MPs were told that while the first and second consumption bands benefit from government subsidies, tariffs rise significantly in the third band.
Without clear and timely alerts, many families unknowingly slip into the higher tiers, particularly during summer, when the use of air conditioners pushes consumption sharply upwards.
According to Mr Al Tamimi, the proposed system would encourage responsible consumption habits.
“This step will also reduce complaints and disputes related to high bills and strengthen trust between citizens and the EWA through transparency and proactive communication,” he added.
With parliamentary approval secured, the proposal has been sent to the Cabinet, which will study the mechanism for implementation and co-ordinate with EWA on the technical requirements for introducing the notification system.
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