NEPRA Raises Electricity Prices by 35 Paisa Per Unit

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has announced a 35 paisa per unit increase in electricity prices across Pakistan. The decision comes under the quarterly adjustment mechanism. NEPRA said the hike will apply to electricity bills issued from March to May 2026. This adjustment covers the period from October to December 2025. The regulator stated the increase is necessary to address rising costs in electricity generation. Consumers across the country will be affected by the change. Officials said the adjustment follows NEPRA’s regular fuel cost reviews.

The price hike is expected to add an extra financial burden on electricity users. NEPRA estimated the total impact at Rs8.67 billion. Households and businesses will see slightly higher monthly bills. Analysts warned that rising electricity costs could affect household budgets and business expenses. The regulator emphasized that the adjustment is essential to maintain the electricity supply. Electricity providers said the hike will help cover increased generation and fuel costs. Experts said such quarterly adjustments are part of Pakistan’s standard energy policy.

NEPRA explained that the quarterly adjustment mechanism ensures fair pricing in line with fuel costs. The mechanism helps balance costs between consumers and power producers. It calculates adjustments based on fluctuations in fuel and generation expenses. Regulators said this process keeps the power sector financially sustainable. NEPRA reviews fuel costs regularly and sets adjustments every quarter. Consumers are informed in advance about upcoming changes. Transparency in this mechanism aims to maintain trust in electricity pricing.

The adjustment for October to December 2025 reflects rising international fuel prices. Officials noted that power generation costs have increased significantly over the past months. This includes higher coal, oil, and gas expenses. The regulator said these costs directly affect electricity production. Therefore, a small increase in consumer rates was necessary. NEPRA officials highlighted that ignoring these costs could harm the power sector. The move ensures energy providers can continue supplying electricity reliably.

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Electricity distribution companies will implement the new rates in their billing systems. Bills issued from March 2026 onwards will reflect the 35 paisa per unit increase. NEPRA said companies must notify consumers about the revised rates. The regulator urged consumers to review their bills carefully. Officials also reminded households to manage electricity consumption efficiently. Energy-saving measures can help mitigate the impact of rising costs. Public awareness campaigns are expected to support this effort.

Consumer advocacy groups reacted cautiously to the price hike. Some expressed concern about the financial pressure on low-income households. Others called for better monitoring of electricity companies’ efficiency. Analysts said transparency in NEPRA’s calculations could reduce public complaints. The regulator said it follows strict procedures to justify price adjustments. It emphasized that the increase is not arbitrary but based on verified costs. Overall, the goal is to balance fair pricing and sector sustainability.

the 35 paisa per unit electricity price increase is part of Pakistan’s quarterly adjustment policy. NEPRA aims to cover rising fuel and generation costs. Consumers are advised to plan their budgets accordingly. The regulator continues to monitor electricity supply and generation expenses. Quarterly adjustments ensure the energy sector remains financially viable. Officials said future adjustments may follow similar review processes. Transparency and communication remain key to maintaining public trust.