Power consumers face Rs1.6/unit hike

ISLAMABAD:

Electricity prices have been increased by Rs1.63 per unit across the country, including Karachi which is served by K-Electric, a private power utility.

According to a notification issued by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) on Wednesday, the increase was approved due to the monthly fuel adjustment for January.

Power consumers will be charged the additional amount in their March electricity bills. The hike will also apply to K-Electric consumers. However, lifeline consumers and electric vehicle charging stations are exempt from the increase.

Nepra had earlier reserved its decision after holding a hearing on the January fuel price adjustment and issued the notification late Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, the regulator also approved a separate increase of 35 paisa per unit under the quarterly adjustment mechanism. As a result of both adjustments, electricity tariffs for consumers are set to rise further in the coming billing cycle.