We need a common voice.

BAC GIANG - Recently, several localities in the province have been dealing with disagreements over electricity prices among small traders operating in markets. To ensure business operations and protect the interests of both sides, a common ground is needed.

According to reports, traders doing business at Bang Market in Nghia Hoa commune (Lang Giang district) are all paying a much higher electricity price than the direct price offered by the power company. Meanwhile, selling goods at the market is becoming increasingly difficult, so they have to use electricity very sparingly to reduce costs.

It is known that there are currently hundreds of small traders in the market, with some households consuming tens of kWh of electricity and others consuming hundreds of kWh per month. The traders argue that the current electricity prices are too high, while the market management unit considers the current electricity charges reasonable. This is because the entire market uses a single main meter, and all operations of the market's electrical system, including water pumps, lighting, maintenance, and repair costs, are calculated, balanced, and paid for by the market management to the electricity company.

Disagreeing with the current electricity rates, the small business owners have petitioned several authorities to consider a plan that would allow them to sign direct electricity purchase contracts with Bac Giang Power Company.

Regarding the above issue, Mr. Nguyen Van Bang, Chairman of the People's Committee of Lang Giang District, informed that the district had organized dialogues with small traders and met with relevant parties. Currently, they are continuing to study legal regulations and understand the aspirations of the people to resolve the matter. Recently, at a meeting with the Chairmen of the People's Committees of districts, towns, and cities, Mr. Nguyen Viet Oanh, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, requested the Department of Industry and Trade to coordinate with the electricity sector and Lang Giang District to promptly resolve the citizens' requests, ensuring compliance with regulations, protecting the rights of all parties, and avoiding causing public discontent.

Many opinions suggest that the Department of Industry and Trade should review the electricity fee collection methods for all markets in the province, advise on management methods, and apply optimal electricity pricing for wider implementation; rectify inappropriate cases, ensuring the rights of businesses operating and managing markets as well as traders doing business in the markets.

For markets built and invested in by businesses, the businesses may only conduct retail electricity sales when they meet the conditions stipulated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade ; they should research and guide traders' proposals regarding purchasing electricity directly from the power sector. Through this, they should explain and engage in specific dialogue with all parties to create consensus and a common voice, avoiding complications in security and order, and promoting the development of trade and goods exchange.

Truong Son

Source: https://baobacgiang.vn/can-co-tieng-noi-chung-postid419302.bbg