ANEEL proposes return of R$ 50.1 billion in credits to consumers

A public consultation was opened this Tuesday (9), which aims to discuss how to return more than R$ 50.1 billion in tax credits for consumers, referring to court decisions on the withdrawal of ICMS of the PIS/Pasep and Cofins calculation base on electricity bills.

According to the announcement from ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency), the proposal put out for public consultation by the agency's board provides for the return of the amounts through a reduction in the next tariff adjustments, within a period of up to five years.

Efrain Cruz, director reporting on the matter, argues that “the credits belong to the consumer and must be used in the most beneficial way possible for them”. Furthermore, it assesses that, even before the public consultation closes, part of the amounts may already be returned in special situations.

André Pepitone, general director of ANEEL, highlighted that the measure benefits the population, especially in a scenario of reduced income for many people. “In addition to complying with the Court’s decision, the return of these resources follows the spirit of tariff relief, the main banner of this board of ANEEL. Therefore, since the beginning of consultations with society on the subject, we have always advocated that the credits be used to alleviate adjustments to electricity bills, to the benefit of the consumer”, he stated.

ANEEL's proposal will remain under public consultation between February 11th and March 29th. Those interested in participating can send their contributions to [email protected].