Pakistani electricity consumers may receive some relief as power tariffs are expected to be reduced by 48 paisas per unit for one month.
The development comes after the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) completed its hearing on the Fuel Price Adjustment (FCA) request for December.
According to NEPRA officials, the final decision will be announced after reviewing detailed data and financial records.
Details of the NEPRA Hearing
During the hearing, officials from the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) stated that the request was related to fuel price adjustments.
They explained that in December, electricity demand was met by operating power plants running on imported gas and coal, which increased generation costs.
CPPA officials also noted that prices were affected by the government’s Incremental Package, which was introduced to support industrial and agricultural sectors.
NEPRA Raises Concerns
NEPRA Member Maqsood Anwar pointed out that earlier assurances suggested the incremental package would not require running expensive power plants.
However, CPPA responded that the cost difference would be adjusted through quarterly adjustments and that the package also offers economic benefits.
According to CPPA data:
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44% of industrial consumers benefited from the package
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39% of agricultural consumers received relief
Impact of Solar Energy
NEPRA also highlighted that solar power adoption has reduced electricity demand during daytime hours.
Maqsood Anwar suggested introducing special incentives to increase daytime power generation.
CPPA confirmed that work on such proposals is underway and will soon be submitted to the regulator.
Pending Reports
During the hearing, NEPRA noted that the Power Division has not yet submitted a written response regarding the State of Industry Report.
What Happens Next?
NEPRA is expected to announce its final decision after reviewing all relevant data. If approved, consumers may see reduced electricity bills in the coming month.
