By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The power regulator on Wednesday introduced fixed monthly charges for domestic electricity consumers using up to 300 units a month for the first time, expanding a fee structure previously limited to higher-consumption households, while slashing rates for industrial users in a bid to ease burdens on key sectors.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) approved the changes following a request from the Power Division, applying the fixed charges to both protected and non-protected domestic consumers, according to a decision issued by the regulator. Previously, such charges were levied only on non-protected domestic users consuming more than 300 units per month. Under the new structure, protected consumers – typically lower-income households qualifying for subsidies – using up to 100 units per month will now pay Rs200 in fixed charges. Those in the same protected category using up to 200 units will face Rs300 per month.
For non-protected consumers, the charges are set at Rs275 for usage up to 100 units, Rs300 for up to 200 units, and Rs350 for up to 300 units. The decision also adjusts fixed charges for higher slabs among non-protected users. Those consuming between 301 and 400 units per month will see an increase of Rs200, bringing the total to Rs400. Consumers in the 401-500 unit bracket face a 100-rupee hike to Rs500, while those using up to 600 units will pay an additional Rs75, resulting in Rs675 per month.
However, reductions apply to the highest consumption levels: users between 601 and 700 units will pay Rs675 after a cut of Rs125, and those exceeding 700 units will also be charged Rs675 following a Rs325 reduction. Lifeline consumers, defined as those using up to 100 units per month and eligible for the most basic protections, remain exempt from these fixed charges.
In parallel, Nepra reduced electricity rates for industrial consumers by Rs4.4 per unit, aiming to support manufacturing and economic activity amid ongoing energy challenges. Domestic consumers in higher slabs will also receive targeted relief on variable rates. Those using 301-400 units per month get a reduction of Rs1.53 per unit, while the 401-500 unit slab sees a cut of Rs1.25 per unit. Users in the 501-600 unit range benefit from a Rs1.40 drop per unit.
Further up, consumers between 601 and 700 units will see relief of Rs0.91 per unit, and those above Rs700 units will pay Re0.49 less per unit. Sources said the federal government will issue a formal notification on the revised tariff structure once it receives the regulator’s decision for final consideration.
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