Tariff clarity — understanding SEC-related billing from a UK perspective

Practical guidance to read Saudi electricity bills (SEC/SCECO), identify tariff components and map lines to UK equivalents for clearer comparisons and payments.

  • How consumption, demand and fixed charges appear
  • What "SEC references" mean for payments
  • Steps to verify your statement
Contact an advisor SEC payment guide
Tariff overview

Key tariff components

Most SEC bills include a set of repeatable lines — here are common items and what they typically represent.

  • Energy charge — kWh multiplied by unit rate.
  • Fixed/Customer charge — daily/periodic standing charge.
  • Fuel & power purchase adjustments — pass-through costs.
  • Taxes & subsidies — VAT (where applicable) or government adjustments.
  • Previous balance & payments — reconciles paid amounts.
Bill lines explained Meter reading example

Tariff comparison table

Line Typical SEC label UK equivalent Action
Energy Consumption (kWh) Unit rate (p/kWh) Query
Fixed Customer charge Standing charge Check
Adjustments Fuel & adjustments R&P / pass-through Learn
Reference Payment reference / transaction Payment reference Help

Step-by-step check you can run now

  1. Confirm billing period dates match your meter readings.
  2. Check kWh used vs last period; rule out estimated readings.
  3. Match unit rates shown to published tariff schedules.
  4. Ensure payments and credits are correctly applied.
  5. Note any flagged adjustments and request breakdowns.

If anything looks inconsistent, contact SEC or use our advisory links for template queries.

Get template message UK/SA notes
Advisor face

Advisor: Michael Grant — UK-based consultant specialising in international utility statement interpretation.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Estimated readings

Many disputes stem from estimated readings. Check the meter photo/dates and request an actual read if necessary.

Misapplied payments

Ensure your payment reference matches the invoice reference — bank transfers without correct codes may be delayed or unreconciled.

Interactive: Tariff FAQs (expand to read)

The reference ties your bank transfer to the exact invoice. Missing or incorrect references can delay reconciliation — always include the exact invoice reference shown on SEC statements.

Convert SAR per kWh to GBP per kWh using the current FX rate, then compare published SEC unit rate to typical UK rates; don't forget standing charges.

Start with SEC customer service using the invoice reference, then submit formal proof (meter readings, screenshots of payments). If needed, seek independent review via our Contacts page.

Additional resources

Use these materials to support queries or prepare payment details:

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sec-electricity — independent explanations for SEC bills and payment clarity.