The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) is all set to accord final approval for raise in power tariff by Rs 1.25 per unit for those already under financial stress domestic consumers.
The decision, soon to be communicated to the federal government in writing, is expected to burden consumers with an additional cost of Rs 23 billion.
The decision follows a hearing held by Nepra concerning fuel adjustment in electricity prices, focusing on the quarterly adjustment from July to September. While the detailed decision is yet to be officially issued, Nepra officials confirmed the endorsement of the Rs 1.25 per unit increase for electricity consumers nationwide.
During the hearing, Nepra officials revealed that a total increase request of over Rs 22.56 billion had been put forward. They highlighted a reduction in electricity purchases by Distribution Companies (DISCOs) during July, August, and September.
Over the three-month period, the total electricity purchase declined by 9.5 percent, with DISCOs procuring 38 billion units instead of the anticipated 42 billion.
Despite the possibility of a negative adjustment, Nepra officials underscored that the increase in electricity bills had already been reflected in consumers’ payments across all DISCOs. Concerns were raised about billing accuracy, with reports of 10 to 12 cases of over-billing identified in each DISCO.
