K-Electric Tariff
ISLAMABAD: In a potential respite for the power consumers of Karachi, the electricity tariff for K-Electric (KE) customers is expected to be reduced by Rs4.69 per unit, according to a report.
The reduction, if approved, will be implemented under the monthly fuel adjustment mechanism and is scheduled for discussion in a public hearing by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on June 19.
This anticipated cut in electricity charges could translate into a substantial financial relief of approximately Rs7.17 billion for KE’s vast consumer base. The move comes at a critical time, with Karachi residents facing both soaring electricity costs and increasing power outages during the intense summer heat, leading to widespread public frustration and demonstrations.
The upcoming NEPRA hearing will review the petition filed by K-Electric seeking a downward revision in tariffs. If given the green light, this would be the second fuel cost adjustment granted to KE in recent weeks.
On June 5, NEPRA had already announced a Rs2.99 per unit reduction in KE tariffs for the month of March, which is set to reflect in June electricity bills.
That earlier reduction, while welcomed by consumers, offered only limited relief amid Karachi’s worsening energy crisis. Residents have continued to suffer from prolonged, unannounced load-shedding, prompting not only street protests but also concerns voiced by elected officials.
In a recent interview, K-Electric’s CEO Moonis Alvi acknowledged the challenges posed by high electricity tariffs. However, he distanced the utility from the pricing decisions, attributing the high costs to broader government policies and regulatory frameworks beyond the company’s control.
As temperatures in Karachi continue to climb, the city’s electricity issues remain a focal point of public discourse. The possible Rs4.69 per unit cut may offer temporary financial relief, but without structural changes in policy and energy supply, long-term stability in Karachi’s power sector remains uncertain.
