The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has added fixed charges to the electricity tariff structure, impacting consumers across Pakistan starting from July 1, 2024.
Increased Fixed Charges
NEPRA’s decision includes a substantial hike in fixed monthly charges for commercial and industrial consumers, aiming to bolster revenue for distribution companies (Discos).
Commercial consumers will face up to a 300% increase, while industrial consumers may see fixed charges rise by up to 355%.
Residential Consumers Affected
For residential consumers, the new structure imposes fixed charges based on monthly electricity usage bands.
Those using 301-400 units per month will now pay Rs200 in fixed charges, escalating up to Rs1,000 for consumption exceeding 700 units. Additionally, users with time-of-use (ToU) meters will face a uniform Rs1,000 charge monthly.
Impact on Commercial and Industrial Sectors
Commercial consumers with lower loads will now pay Rs1,000 per month, a significant increase from previous rates.
Meanwhile, industrial consumers in various categories, such as B2 and B3, will experience hikes ranging from 300% to 355%, depending on their usage levels.
Financial Burden on Consumers
These adjustments are expected to place a heavier financial burden on consumers, particularly businesses and industries already grappling with operational costs.
The shift towards higher fixed charges aims to balance revenue streams, with fixed charges currently contributing only 2% to total revenue despite comprising 72% of the cost structure.
Looking Ahead
The government’s forthcoming petition to NEPRA seeks a uniform tariff structure for FY25, projecting an increase in the base tariff to Rs5.72 per unit. This adjustment is part of broader efforts to stabilize the power sector and increase revenue, estimated to exceed Rs3.763 trillion for the fiscal year 2025.
While these changes are intended to streamline financial operations within the electricity sector, they undoubtedly pose challenges for consumers already navigating economic pressures.
Understanding these modifications is crucial for all electricity users to prepare effectively for the upcoming fiscal year’s energy costs.
The revised tariff structure underscores the importance of balancing revenue needs with consumer affordability, highlighting ongoing challenges in Pakistan’s electricity sector management.
