In a statement, Malaysian Consumers Movement (MCM) president Darshan Singh Dhillon said the El Nino phenomenon provided TNB the opportunity to carry out its social responsibility programme by helping the people out.

According to Darshan, the hot weather had taken a toll on consumer’s household finances with many burdened by high electricity charges.

“The unbearable heat has forced consumers to switch on their air-conditioning units and other air cooling equipment for longer periods throughout the day to ensure comfort.

“Some consumers are experiencing an electricity bill surge which runs into hundreds of ringgit.”

Citing a statement from TNB, he pointed out that the heavy usage of electricity was reflected in the country’s power consumption last month reaching an all-time peak of 17,175MW.

Darshan added that this had broken the previous record of 16,901MW in June 2014.

Earlier today, The Star reported many were shocked by how much they had to pay for electricity, with some claiming the amount had tripled.

According to the English daily, more people are switching on their air-conditioners due to the hot weather.