NEPRA hikes electricity price by Rs1.46 per unit

Islamabad: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) notified an increase of Rs1.46 per unit in electricity prices on account of fuel charges adjustment (FCA) for the month of August 2023 on Friday.

Power distribution firms (DISCOs) asked for an adjustment for the outgoing, and the regulatory body responded by ruling on a petition submitted by the Central Power Purchasing Authority (CPPA).

The additional amount will be collected in bills for the month of September 2023.

K-Electric and lifeline customers will not be affected by this rise in the power tariff under the heading FCA, and power distribution companies (DISCOs) will independently reflect the increase in the cost of electricity in their customers' bills.

Earlier today, The International Monetary Fund (IMF) desired a hefty 45–50% increase in gas prices from the Pakistani government following the acceptance of relief for power use.

The IMF reportedly required an increase in gas rate from 45 to 50 percent in the account for "Fuel Adjustment Charges" as of July 1 while putting a strong emphasis on a crackdown on electricity and gas theft to promote recovery.

It is important to note that the federal cabinet must approve any changes to gas tariffs in order for them to take effect.

The FBR has performed admirably, as seen by the IMF's decision to offer the relief of Rs15 billion, which is intended to lessen the financial strain on energy consumers.

Yesterday, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) approved the hike in tariff for hydropower electricity by 29 percent on Thursday.

According to details, the average hydropower tariff is expected to rise from Rs 3.85 to Rs 4.96 per unit for 2022–2023.

The CPPA was also given a directive by NEPRA to assess the hydropower plants owned by WAPDA for capacity.

The power regulatory body mandated that each station submit its report to NEPRA along with a separate analysis of the capacity status.