ISLAMABAD: Electricity consumers across Pakistan, including Karachi, may face higher power bills in August as the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) considers a proposed increase of Rs1.20 per unit under the monthly Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA).
The proposed hike comes at a time when households are already grappling with rising inflation and higher living expenses. If approved, the additional charges will be reflected in consumers’ electricity bills for August.
CPPA Seeks Tariff Increase
The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) has submitted an application to NEPRA seeking approval for the tariff adjustment based on the Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) for electricity generated during June.
NEPRA is holding a public hearing to review the request before issuing its final decision.
June Power Generation Mix
According to the CPPA’s application, hydropower remained the largest source of electricity generation during June, accounting for 39% of the national electricity supply.
The generation mix further included:
- Hydropower: 39%
- Local coal: 10.11%
- Imported coal: 12.65%
- Imported gas: 11.02%
- Nuclear power: 13.40%
The remaining electricity was generated through other energy sources, according to the submitted data.
Decision After Public Hearing
Following the hearing, NEPRA will determine whether the proposed Rs1.20 per unit increase should be approved. If the regulator gives its approval, consumers across the country, including K-Electric customers in Karachi, will pay the additional amount through their August electricity bills.
Previous Tariff Hike
Earlier this month, NEPRA had already increased electricity tariffs by Rs0.34 per unit under the monthly Fuel Cost Adjustment for May.
The regulator issued an official notification implementing the increase for all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs), including K-Electric, with the additional charges reflected in consumers’ July electricity bills.
Rising Burden on Consumers
The latest proposed increase, if approved, would further add to the financial burden on consumers already facing higher utility costs and inflation. The final decision will depend on NEPRA’s assessment of the CPPA’s request following the public hearing.
