In a recent announcement, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) revealed a significant increase of almost 20% in the uniform national tariff to secure approximately Rs3.8 trillion in funding for the 10 ex-Wapda electricity distribution companies (Discos) for the fiscal year 2024-25. This adjustment, resulting in a Rs5.72 per unit increase, aims to generate an additional revenue of Rs485 billion for Discos and strengthen the government’s position in securing an IMF bailout in July. The average national base tariff is set to reach Rs35.50 per unit, with additional taxes and surcharges pushing it up to Rs42 per unit, thus burdening consumers with an extra Rs580 billion.
Nepra’s determination also highlighted the need for adjustments in various consumer categories to meet the revenue requirements without affecting the overall total. Despite a Rs10.69 per unit price cut for the industrial sector, the burden is expected to shift to domestic, commercial, and bulk power consumers. The objective is to ensure progress on structural reforms for the energy sector’s viability and governance of state-owned enterprises. This move reflects the government’s commitment to stabilizing the energy sector and meeting international financial requirements.\
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