Una boleta más liviana: EPEN unveiled a discount of 30% for residential users in Neuquén

There is a relief that will soon be felt in the kitchen, the bedroom and, especially, in the monthly bill: residential customers of the EPEN in Neuquén will pay 30% less for electricity from next month. The reduction applies to both the fixed and variable charges, covers every residential consumption category and does not require users to meet a specific consumption level.

How to access the discount

The program is called Tarifa Neuquina and, contrary to what some may imagine, it is not automatic. Interested households will have to register by completing a form that the provincial energy authority will make available shortly. Once the adhesion is completed, the discount will appear on each monthly bill.

The announcement was made by governor Rolando Figueroa during the anniversary event of Los Miches. At the ceremony, he said: “A partir del mes que viene, los neuquinos pagaremos 30 por ciento menos de luz en cada una de las viviendas”. The provincial government described the measure as unprecedented in Neuquén and without a direct counterpart elsewhere in the country.

A measure linked to the province's energy role

From the provincial government they clarified that the reduction is not a subsidy. Their explanation points to Neuquén's energy role: the province generates electricity through hydroelectric plants and also hosts the development of Vaca Muerta, whose expansion has recognition in the international hydrocarbons market. The aim is to transfer part of those resources directly to residential users through a lower bill.

The benefit will also reach tourism-related businesses. Hotels and restaurants will be able to access the same 30% discount already granted to agroindustrial activities served by the EPEN, according to Figueroa. For that second stage, however, the government did not set a date.

• The discount applies from next month.
• It covers both fixed and variable electricity charges.
• It includes all residential consumption categories.
• Registration will be required through a form to be made available shortly.
• Hotels and restaurants will also be included, without a confirmed date for that stage.

I find it positive that the measure reaches all households regardless of consumption and that the adhesion process is clearly defined, even though the exact registration date remains pending. For families with tight monthly budgets, a 30% reduction can make a meaningful difference. The key now is to wait for the form and complete it: the relief will only appear on the bill for those who formally adhere.