Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: In a development that spells further financial strain for electricity consumers, the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) has formally requested the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to increase the per-unit tariff by Rs0.82, which would impose an additional burden of Rs12 billion on consumers across the country .
The CPPA submitted the request under the monthly fuel price adjustment mechanism for May, citing an average fuel cost of Rs9.25 per unit during the month . The CPPA, responsible for purchasing electricity from power plants on behalf of distribution companies (DISCOs), has justified the increase based on higher fuel costs incurred during the period .
NEPRA will conduct a formal hearing on June 30 to review the request. A technical evaluation will determine whether the tariff increase is justified or if the current rates should be maintained .
Consumer Impact
If approved, the tariff hike will add approximately Rs12 billion to the overall power sector’s financial burden, directly affecting households and businesses already grappling with high electricity costs . The additional cost comes as Pakistan’s power sector continues to struggle with circular debt and rising capacity payments .
The CPPA has indicated that fuel costs are expected to remain generally stable, though the agency has also warned of a potential 5% increase in global prices in a worst-case scenario . The government has been under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to rationalize energy tariffs and reduce subsidies .
