The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has requested a formal response from the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) concerning the recent charges for geysers appearing in gas bills. OGRA has specifically asked SSGC to clarify the pricing and installation fees related to geysers, particularly during the summer months.
OGRA clarified that consumers are not obligated to use SSGC contractors for geyser installation and are free to undertake the installation themselves. However, the authority stressed that it remains the consumer’s responsibility to ensure that geysers are installed in a manner that conserves energy.
Additionally, gas companies retain the right to inspect geysers on consumers’ premises to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The issue arose when SSGC began collecting “conical baffle” charges from consumers as part of a geyser campaign. Reports indicate that SSGC sent additional bills of Rs2,085 to consumers under this charge, causing distress among millions within its 3.2 million customer network. Concerns have been raised over inflated billing practices, with some consumers receiving additional charges even if they did not have geysers installed.
These extra fees were reportedly levied prior to the installation of conical baffles. In response to the growing backlash, OGRA issued a clarification indicating that the installation of conical baffles is intended to enhance safety and reduce gas costs for consumers. Consumers who believe they are unfairly charged for services they did not receive are advised to file complaints either with SSGC or OGRA. SSGC officials noted that surveys were conducted to facilitate the installation of conical baffles, with charges implemented only after OGRA’s approval. The company has initiated the installation process and encourages consumers to reach out to the nearest Customer Facilitation Center (CFC) for any complaints regarding the conical baffle charges.
