Ogra demands clarification from SSGC over geyser charges in gas bills

KARACHI: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has requested an explanation from the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) concerning the charges related to geysers in consumers’ gas bills.

In an official statement, Ogra announced that it has asked the SSGC to submit a written response about the pricing of geysers and the associated installation fees. The authority clarified that consumers are not obligated to use the SSGC’s contractors for geyser installation and are free to manage the installation independently.

Ogra added that it is the consumers’ responsibility to ensure energy-efficient installation of geysers. Moreover, gas companies retain the right to inspect geysers on consumers’ premises to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

The SSGC recently began including charges for ‘conical baffles’ in its bills, issuing additional charges of Rs2,085 under its geyser campaign.

Ogra explained that the installation of conical baffles was authorised to enhance safety and reduce gas consumption. The regulatory body also urged consumers who were charged for geysers they did not own to file complaints directly with the SSGC or Ogra.