The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority NEPRA has announced a reduction of one paisa per unit in electricity prices under the monthly fuel adjustment mechanism for March.

According to a notification issued by the regulator, the decrease will be applied to consumer bills for the month of May, providing a small but official relief to electricity users across Pakistan.

The adjustment comes after the Central Power Purchasing Agency had requested an increase of 26 paisa per unit under the same fuel adjustment for March. However, NEPRA rejected the proposed hike and instead approved a marginal reduction of one paisa.

Officials said the decision reflects a review of fuel cost variations and power generation mix during the month. The regulator periodically adjusts electricity prices based on changes in fuel costs used for power generation.

In its statement, NEPRA also clarified that reports suggesting an increase in the base electricity tariff are incorrect. It said no decision regarding base tariff revisions is expected before January 2027.

Energy sector officials noted that although the reduction is small, it still represents a rare downward adjustment in electricity prices at a time when consumers are facing high inflation and rising utility costs.

The power sector in Pakistan frequently relies on monthly fuel adjustments to reflect changes in global fuel prices and generation costs, which directly impact electricity bills for households and businesses.