Pakistan’s new government has pledged relief to the masses grappling with soaring inflation, particularly in utility bills and food prices. However, immediate relief seems unlikely as another increase in power tariffs looms.
Amidst consumers paying over Rs50 per unit, approximately 10 power Distribution Companies (Discos) have approached the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) seeking to transfer a burden of Rs 2.765 trillion onto consumers.
For instance, Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has petitioned NEPRA for an adjustment of Rs 852.047 billion, Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) has requested Rs 501.481 billion, and Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has sought Rs 400.484 billion.
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Similarly, other companies like Quetta Power Company, Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), Tribal Areas Electric Supply Company (TESCO), Sukkur Electric Supply Company, and Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) have also submitted appeals for substantial adjustments.
These requests primarily cover Operations and maintenance costs, rupee depreciation, Return on Rate base, Gross Margin, net margin, and Prior Year Adjustment.
Local media reports indicate a potential surge of up to Rs7 per unit in electricity rates in the coming months. However, it’s emphasized that this prediction is premature pending a hearing by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority.
