The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has introduced a major change in Pakistan’s electricity tariff system, which could significantly increase power bills for many consumers. Under the new formula, electricity bills will no longer depend only on the number of units used. Instead, fixed charges will now be based on the approved electricity load (kW) of each household.
This new system, which will be implemented from January 2026, applies to all domestic consumers except lifeline users. Previously, fixed charges were only applied to those who used more than 300 units per month, ranging between Rs. 200 to Rs. 1,000. Now, even those who use less electricity will have to pay fixed charges based on their load, making bills higher regardless of actual usage.
NEPRA Introduces New Fixed Electricity Charges Based on Load for Domestic Consumers
Under the revised structure, fixed charges will range from Rs. 200 to Rs. 675 per kilowatt. This means households with higher approved load will face a much bigger financial burden. For example, if a consumer has a 5 kW load, they previously paid a maximum of Rs. 1,000 in fixed charges. Under the new system, they may now have to pay around Rs. 3,375 per month, even if they use very little electricity.
This change is expected to impact a large number of households, especially those with higher load connections but lower usage. Many citizens have expressed concern, saying that electricity bills are already high and this new system will make it even more difficult to manage monthly expenses.
Experts believe that this shift aims to ensure stable revenue for power companies, but it also places a constant financial burden on consumers. With rising inflation and economic pressure, this decision has created worry among the public, as electricity bills will now include a fixed cost that must be paid every month, regardless of consumption.
