Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Part 1: Understanding the Tariff B Restructuring
1.What is the Tariff B restructuring and what are the key changes?

There are two main categories of electricity tariff in Brunei Darussalam:

  • Tariff A for Residential customers.
  • Tariff B for Non-Residential customers (previously known as Tariff B – Commercial).

The key changes are:

  • Tariff Rates:
    Under the existing tariff, electricity rates decrease as consumption increases (regressive structure).
    Under the revised tariff, rates will increase progressively across higher consumption blocks.
  • Consumption Block Structure:
    Under the existing tariff structure, the electricity consumption blocks are linked to the customer’s subscribed capacity (kVA).
    Under the revised tariff, energy charges will be calculated using consumption blocks based on actual electricity usage (kWh), without the existing kVA multiplier.
    A separate capacity charge, based on subscribed capacity (kVA), will also be introduced as part of the revised tariff structure.
  • Tariff B Classification:
    The existing Tariff B – Commercial will be renamed Tariff B – Non-Residential.

Tariff B – Commercial*

TARIFF B NON-RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURE
Usage Block Unit Block Revised Rates(B$/kWh)
Low 1 kWh to 1,500kWh B$0.08
Medium 1,501 kWh to 4,500 kWh B$0.12
High 4,501 kWh to 15,000 kWh B$0.15
Intensive 15,001 kWh to 7,200,000 kWh B$0.21
More Intensive 7,200,001 kWh to 21,600,000 kWh B$0.23
Ultra Intensive 21,600,001 kWh and Above B$0.25
2.Why is this adjustment being made?

• The restructuring aims to encourage more efficient and responsible use of electricity by introducing a fairer, clearer and more progressive tariff structure. It also supports a more targeted and sustainable approach to Government support while contributing to the long-term reliability and sustainability of electricity supply.

• The revised tariff structure will help businesses better manage their electricity consumption, plan operating costs and make informed investment decisions. The Government remains committed to maintaining a competitive business and investment environment, with potential impacts to be closely monitored throughout implementation.

• A tiered tariff structure with progressive rates, starting with lower rates for basic levels of consumption, helps keep essential electricity usage affordable while encouraging customers to avoid excessive consumption. This approach promotes energy conservation, reduces pressure on the power system, and supports the recovery of higher costs associated with peak demand and future infrastructure expansion.

3.When was it first announced?

• The Government first announced the proposed restructuring of the commercial electricity tariff during the Legislative Council session in March 2026, followed by a media release.

• Further socialisation was provided through ministerial statements during the Legislative Council session in August 2026, alongside ongoing public communication efforts through Rampai Pagi interviews and social media infographics.

• The full package of the proposed Tariff B restructuring, including the revised tariff rates, consumption block structure, definition of non-residential customers, implementation timeline and transition arrangements, has been announced on 23 October 2026 through a joint Rampai Pagi interview session involving the Department of Energy, Upstream and Downstream (DOEUD) at the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF), accompanied by an official press release.

• Following the announcement, the Department of Energy, Upstream and Downstream at the Prime Minister’s Office, the Department of Electrical Services and other relevant stakeholders will host a series of engagement sessions (Muzakarah) with business and industry representatives to explain the updates, address questions, and gather feedback.

Part 2: Who Will Be Affected
1.Who is covered by the revised Tariff B?

This tariff adjustment applies to all customers registered under the Type B (Commercial) tariff category, including but not limited to:

  • Industrial facilities and Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs)
  • Shopping malls, supermarkets, and mini marts
  • Retail shops and commercial outlets
  • Private clinics and private schools
2.Will Tariff A Residential customers be affected by this adjustment?

No. The adjustment only applies to Tariff B commercial customers / accounts unless otherwise stated by the relevant authority

3.Are businesses operating from home or residential premises be affected by the Tariff B restructuring?

• Businesses operating from home or residential premises with electricity accounts registered under Tariff A (Residential) will not be affected. The restructuring applies only to accounts classified under Tariff B (Non-Residential).

• The applicable tariff depends on how the electricity account is registered and classified by the Department of Electrical Services (DES), taking into account the type and approved use of the premises. Customers who are unsure of their electricity account classification may contact DES for clarification.

Part 3: Understanding Your Electricity Bill
1.How will this new Tariff B structure affect my monthly electricity bills?

The impact on each customer’s electricity bill will depend on their level of electricity consumption. Customers with lower consumption are more likely to remain within the lower tariff tiers and may benefit from lower electricity charges.

In contrast, customers with higher consumption may fall within the higher tariff tiers, which could result in higher monthly electricity bills. This provides a stronger incentive for customers to monitor and manage their electricity usage more efficiently.

2.How can I estimate my future bills?

Customers can refer to the official tariff schedule at www.des.gov.bn/new-electricity-tariff/ and use the Tariff B calculator published at www.des.gov.bn/tariff-calculator/

Customers should refer to their recent consumption records, ideally across several months, because electricity use may vary over time. Estimates are indicative and actual charges will depend on the actual consumption

3.What if I believe my tariff classification or bill is incorrect?

Customers should first check the account classification and recorded consumption, then contact DES through its official customer-service channels for billing or account-verification enquiries.

General questions about the tariff restructuring and its potential impact may also be directed to the Monitoring and Review Taskforce via Tariff B Feedback Platform through WhatsApp line (+673) 7400515 or email address tariffb@jpm.gov.bn.

4.How do I know whether the new capacity charge applies to me?

The capacity charge will not apply to all commercial customers. Its applicability depends on whether the electricity account is classified under Low Voltage (415V) or High Voltage (≥11kV).

For further clarification on your account classification and applicable charges, please contact DES through its official customer-service channels.

Part 4: Implementation and Transition
1.When will the revised Tariff B take effect?

Full implementation of the revised Tariff B is planned for April 2028, following an 18-month transition period to allow businesses sufficient time to prepare and adjust.

The existing tariff rates will remain in effect until the revised rates are implemented

2.Why is a transition period being provided?

The 18-month transition period is intended to give businesses time to understand the revised tariff structure, assess its potential impact on operating costs and make necessary adjustments.

It will also allow the Government to engage with stakeholders, assess potential impacts and consider appropriate measures to support a smooth implementation.

3.What should businesses do during the transition period?

Businesses are encouraged to review their electricity consumption, estimate their future electricity bills using the revised tariff calculator, and identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and manage operating costs.

Businesses are also encouraged to participate in stakeholder engagement sessions (Muzakarah) to better understand the changes and raise any concerns.

The latest schedule and updates on these sessions will be published on DOEUD’s official Instagram account

4.How will the Government assess the impact on businesses?

The Tariff B Monitoring and Review Taskforce will monitor the impact of the restructuring on businesses and the wider economy throughout the transition period.

This will include engaging with industry stakeholders, reviewing relevant data and feedback, and assessing whether further adjustments or support measures may be necessary.

Businesses are encouraged to share their feedback through the dedicated feedback channels to support this assessment.

5.Will support be available for businesses that face challenges adjusting?

The Government recognises that businesses have different operating needs and may face varying challenges in adapting to the revised tariff.

Throughout the transition period, the Government will continue to engage with businesses, provide guidance on improving energy efficiency and assess the impact of the restructuring.

Targeted support measures may be considered where necessary, taking into account the needs of affected businesses and the findings of the impact assessment.

Part 5: Managing Your Electricity Costs
1.Is there anything I can do to cut down my electricity consumption?
  • Adopt Energy-Saving Habits
    Simple changes in daily habits can help reduce electricity consumption and lower monthly electricity bills. For example, setting air-conditioning system between 23°C to 25°C and switch off lights in unoccupied areas can make a meaningful difference in overall electricity usage.
  • Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
    Customers can further reduce electricity consumption by choosing energy-efficient appliances and technologies, such as LED lighting, air conditioning system with star-rating which use less electricity while providing the same level of performance.
  • Maintain Equipment
    Regularly clean AC filters, service cooling systems and ensure equipment is operating efficiently to reduce unnecessary energy consumption and maintain optimal performance.
  • Manage Standby Consumption
    Switch off and unplug electrical equipment when not in use, rather than leaving it on standby, to avoid unnecessary electricity consumption and reduce overall energy wastage.
  • Monitor Electricity Usage Through USMS
    Customers can use USMS to monitor their electricity usage on an hourly, daily, and monthly basis. By understanding when and how electricity is being used, customers can identify areas of high consumption, make simple adjustments, and adopt energy-saving measures to help lower their monthly electricity bills.
  • Conduct an Energy Audit
    Building owners and tenants can carry out a basic energy audit to identify areas of high electricity consumption and opportunities to improve energy efficiency. Practical guidance on energy audits and energy-saving measures is available in the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Handbook on the Department of Energy, Upstream and Downstream website. (https://www.energy.gov.bn/resources-and-statistics/).
  • Consider Rooftop Solar
    Building owners can also consider installing rooftop solar systems to reduce electricity drawn from the grid and help offset monthly electricity bills. Eligible small-scale solar installations of up to 1 MW (1,000 kW) may participate in the Net-Metering Programme.
2.Are there any incentives for those who have adopted the use of green energy?

Building owners can install Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems and participate in the Net-Metering Programme, which allows excess electricity generated to be exported to the grid in exchange for electricity credits. This helps reduce overall electricity bills and improves the return of investment (ROI) for solar systems. In addition, since 2012, there is no tax imposed on solar panels which can help reduce the upfront cost of installation.

3.Are there any grants available for Solar PV installation?
  • Currently there are no specific grants available for solar PV installation. However, building owners may consider installing solar PV systems to help reduce their electricity bills over the long term.
  • Businesses may also benefit from the existing Net-Metering Programme and tax exemption on solar panels, which can help solar PV installation more affordable
  • The Government will continue to explore measures to encourage the adoption of renewable energy in the country.
4.Is “Net Metering” available for commercial solar installations?

Yes. The Net-Metering Programme has been open to all sectors – including commercial businesses – since 2021.

  • Eligibility: Applies to small-scale solar installations up to 1 MW (1,000 kW).
  • How it Works: Any excess power generated by your solar system is exported back to the national grid in exchange for electricity credits, directly lowering your monthly bill.
  • Commercial Adoption: To date, 10 commercial companies across manufacturing, oil & gas, banking, and automotive sectors have already installed rooftop solar and enrolled in the program.

• Guidelines on the program, along with a list of registered Solar PV contractors and suppliers, are available at https://www.energy.gov.bn/net-metering-programme/.

5.How can smart building technologies help improve commercial operations and efficiency?
  • Install a Building Energy Management System (BEMS): Track and optimise your building’s energy use in real time from a central system.
  • Use Smart Zoning & Motion Sensors: Install motion sensors for lighting, escalators, and common areas so systems automatically power down during low-usage periods.
  • Monitor Equipment Proactively: Keep track of equipment performance to fix minor issues before they cause full breakdowns, reducing maintenance costs and operational downtime.
Part 6: Support & Where to Get Help
1. Where can I ask questions or provide feedback about Tariff B?
  • Customers may contact the dedicated Tariff B Feedback Platform through WhatsApp at (+673) 7400515 or email tariffb@jpm.gov.bn
  • Enquiries and feedback submitted through the platform will be channelled directly to the Tariff B Monitoring and Review Taskforce for monitoring, assessment and follow-up.
2.How will my enquiry or feedback be handled?
  • All enquiries and feedback received through the Tariff B Feedback Platform will be recorded and acknowledged on the same day, with the aim of resolving them within five working days.
  • Enquiries requiring technical clarification or further assessment will be referred to the relevant agencies represented in the Tariff B Monitoring and Review Taskforce. Complex cases may require additional time, and customers will be kept informed of their status.
3.Where should I go for billing, payment or USMS enquiries?
  • For enquiries relating to electricity bills, payments, meter status, the USMS or electricity account classification, customers are advised to contact the DES through its official customer service channels or visit the nearest DES counter.
  • The Tariff B Feedback Platform is dedicated to enquiries and feedback relating to the Tariff B restructuring.