ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s government has once again raised electricity prices following a request from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The new increase adds Rs5.72 per unit to the basic electricity tariff.
This decision impacts millions of consumers, especially those with lower incomes. It follows previous hikes of Rs7.50 in the last financial year and Rs7.91 per unit in the fiscal year 2022-23.
According to media reports, the federal cabinet approved the tariff hike through a circulation summary. The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) advised the government of this increase, averaging Rs5.72 per unit. A uniform tariff will likely be established once the federal cabinet’s decision reaches Nepra.
Additionally, the government has introduced fixed monthly charges ranging from Rs200 to Rs1,000 per unit for residential consumers, adding more financial strain.
After Nepra’s approval, the federal government will issue a notification to implement the new tariff increase. This decision is expected to impose approximately Rs600 billion on electricity consumers. Nepra’s decision will affect the basic electricity tariff for the fiscal year 2024-25, with the approved increase set to take effect from July 1, 2024.
