Electricity Prices Raised by Rs1.42 Per Unit in Pakistan

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority has approved an increase of Rs1.42 per unit in electricity tariffs under the monthly fuel charges adjustment for February 2026.

According to the official notification, the revised rates will be reflected in electricity bills issued in April 2026. The increase will apply to consumers of all power distribution companies, including K-Electric, in line with government policy. However, lifeline consumers, electric vehicle charging stations, and certain protected categories have been exempted from this adjustment.

The regulator stated that the hike is based on fluctuations in fuel costs used for power generation. The actual fuel cost recorded for February was higher than the reference rate, resulting in the additional charge. The adjustment will appear as a separate entry in consumers’ bills.

This development comes shortly after a previous increase of Rs1.63 per unit for January 2026, further adding to the financial burden on electricity users already dealing with rising utility expenses.

Officials have indicated that changes in the energy mix, including lower hydropower generation and greater reliance on costlier sources such as imported fuels, contributed to the increase.

In addition to monthly fuel adjustments, consumers are also facing higher bills due to recent changes in the tariff structure. Earlier this year, fixed charges were introduced based on sanctioned load rather than actual electricity consumption. Under the revised system, most domestic consumers—except lifeline users—are required to pay fixed charges regardless of their electricity usage.

Previously, fixed charges applied only to households consuming more than 300 units per month, typically ranging between Rs200 and Rs1,000. The new structure calculates these charges on a per-kilowatt load basis, significantly affecting even low-consumption households.

The latest increase highlights the continued pressure on consumers as electricity costs rise due to fuel price variations, tariff reforms, and broader economic challenges in the country.