K-Electric seeks further hike in electricity prices

Power bills in Karachi may rise significantly due to fuel cost adjustments

K-Electric has filed an application with the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to raise electricity prices for Karachi consumers by Rs5.45 per unit.

The utility company submitted the request under the fuel cost adjustment (FCA) mechanism for the months of May and June.

If approved, the price hike will see an increase of Rs2.53 per unit for May and Rs2.92 per unit for June, reflecting higher fuel prices. 

NEPRA has scheduled a hearing on July 30 to review K-Electric’s application and make a final decision on the proposed tariff increase.

The potential increase in electricity costs is not limited to Karachi. 

Consumers of state-owned distribution companies (DISCOs) may also face higher bills. 

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) has submitted a similar request to NEPRA, seeking an increase of Rs2.10 per unit for one month under the monthly FCA.

NEPRA will review the CPPA's request on July 31, determining whether to approve the price hike for DISCOs' consumers.

This development comes at a time when consumers are already burdened with high energy costs. 

The potential increase in tariffs is expected to add further strain to household budgets and business expenses in Karachi and other regions.