ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has issued a notification announcing a 20-paise per unit increase in electricity prices, as reported by ARY News. This adjustment, part of the quarterly revision for the first quarter of the current fiscal year, will impose an additional burden of Rs1.18 billion on consumers.
Quarterly Adjustment Details
The increase pertains to the July to September quarterly adjustment, which NEPRA had finalized earlier and forwarded to the government for implementation. The revised rates will be applicable for December 2024 only.
Certain categories of consumers, including lifeline and prepaid electricity users, will be exempt from this adjustment. Additionally, those availing the winter package for extra electricity usage will also be excluded from the hike.
The recovery for the final quarterly adjustment of the previous fiscal year, which amounted to Rs1.74 per unit, concluded in November 2024.
NEPRA Reviews K-Electric’s Write-Off Claims
Separately, NEPRA recently held a public hearing on December 10 regarding K-Electric’s claims of unrecoverable dues from chronic defaulters.
During the hearing, concerns were raised about K-Electric’s right-of-claims spanning FY17 to FY23, particularly the challenges posed to Karachi’s residents and businesses.
K-Electric stated that the Rs68 billion in unrecoverable dues had accumulated over seven years and were critical to the company’s financial stability. Efforts to recover these dues included multiple disconnections, engagement with recovery agencies, and targeted initiatives in specific areas.
The company emphasized that these claims had undergone rigorous internal scrutiny and external audits by accredited firms as mandated by NEPRA.
KE’s Position and Future Plans
K-Electric defended its claims, noting that it operates independently of the national circular debt, a distinction recognized by institutions like the World Bank. The company cautioned that rejecting legitimate claims would negatively impact its cash flows, hindering its ability to invest in infrastructure upgrades for improved power supply in Karachi.
The utility reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with NEPRA to resolve the matter, stressing the importance of fair decisions to maintain financial and operational sustainability.
