Tepco submitted an application Friday to the industry ministry to hike household electricity rates by an average of 10.28 percent from July in its Kanto service area, the first such move in 32 years.
Tokyo Electric Power Co's proposal would increase an average households' monthly power bill by about ¥480, according to projections the utility handed to the ministry.
Raising household rates requires prior approval from the industry minister, and a panel of experts will now be set up under the ministry to scrutinize Tepco's request and cost projections, and ultimately determine whether the proposed increase is justifed.