[Alpha Biz=(Chicago) Reporter Kim Jisun] Electricity bills, which have been raised twice this year, are expected to freeze in the third quarter (July ∼ September).

According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the energy industry on the 20th, the prevailing view is that the strand has been set to "freeze" while Korea Electric Power Corp. is preparing to announce electricity bills in the third quarter of this year on the morning of the 21st.

An official from the power industry said, "Under the current situation, there is little possibility of a third-quarter increase."

Second Vice Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kang Kyung-sung made earlier remarks at a press conference on the 14th suggesting an electricity bill freeze in the third quarter, saying, "I think the increase will not be easy considering the public burden."

KEPCO's announcement follows KEPCO's submission of "factors for raising electricity bills in the third quarter" following the announcement by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and a comprehensive review and presentation of opinions by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

The government is concerned that it will increase the burden on the public if it raises fares ahead of the summer when the use of electricity is soaring after raising electricity bills by 8 won per kWh (per kilowatt-hour) in the second quarter of last month.

Since last year, electricity bills have risen by 40.4 won per kWh on five occasions, with the increase rate reaching 39.6 percent.

 

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