K-Electric seeks tariff cut by Rs5 per unit

If approved, the reduction would provide consumers with relief worth Rs6.79 billion, representatives told NEPRA

Listen to article

K-Electric (KE) has requested a reduction of Rs5.02 per unit in the electricity tariff for March, officials said during a hearing at the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on Thursday. If approved, the reduction would provide consumers with relief worth Rs6.79 billion, KE representatives told NEPRA.

The regulator completed the hearing on the fuel adjustment request and will issue a detailed decision after reviewing the data. The announcement comes as Karachi faces severe load shedding amid rising temperatures, sparking public frustration and criticism of KE during the NEPRA hearing.

Consumers accused NEPRA of failing to enforce its consumer service rules and called for greater penalties against KE for extensive power outages.

NEPRA member Rafiq Sheikh reprimanded KE officials over worsening load shedding, describing their distribution system as "very poor" and questioning the company’s explanations.

KE said its staff face attacks while disconnecting power over unpaid bills, with employees sometimes held hostage even in police presence. The company blamed load-shedding on frequent connection cuts.

Sheikh rejected these justifications, stating he did not agree with the company’s position. NEPRA has instructed its officials to obtain an inquiry report from KE that has not yet been shared.