The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has approved an increase of 28 paisa per unit in electricity prices under the December fuel price adjustment (FPA). According to an official notification, the additional cost will be charged to consumers in their February electricity bills.

The increase will apply to electricity users across Pakistan, including K-Electric consumers. However, lifeline consumers and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations have been exempted from this hike. NEPRA stated that the decision was taken to adjust fluctuations in global fuel prices and align electricity generation costs accordingly.

NEPRA officials also highlighted that Pakistan has installed around 6,000 megawatts of solar power capacity, calling it a positive step toward promoting renewable energy and reducing long-term pressure on the power sector.

Government Proposes Fixed Electricity Charges for Consumers

In a separate but significant development, the federal government has proposed the imposition of fixed electricity charges on consumers. The Power Division has submitted a request to NEPRA, with a public hearing scheduled for February 10.

The proposal suggests fixed charges for both protected and non-protected domestic consumers, particularly those using more than 300 units per month.

Proposed Fixed Charges (Protected Consumers)

• 100 units/month: Rs200
• 200 units/month: Rs300

Also Read: NEPRA cuts electricity price by 93 paisa per unit for January bills

Proposed Fixed Charges (Non-Protected Consumers)

• Up to 100 units: Rs275
• Up to 200 units: Rs300
• Up to 300 units: Rs350
• Up to 400 units: Rs400
• Up to 500 units: Rs500
• 600 units and above: Rs675 (with reductions proposed for higher slabs)

Relief Proposed for Higher Consumption Slabs

The government has also proposed per-unit tariff reductions for higher electricity usage:

• 400 units: Rs1.53 per unit reduction
• 500 units: Rs1.25 per unit reduction
• 600 units: Rs1.40 per unit reduction
• 700 units: Rs0.91 per unit reduction
• Above 700 units: Rs0.49 per unit reduction

For commercial consumers with loads of 5kW and above, a Rs1.15 per unit reduction has been proposed, while the industrial sector could see electricity prices reduced by up to Rs5 per unit.

Mixed Impact on Consumers

While the fuel price adjustment has increased short-term electricity costs, the proposed restructuring aims to provide targeted relief to high-usage domestic, commercial, and industrial consumers. NEPRA’s upcoming hearing will be crucial in determining the final impact on electricity bills nationwide.