Consumers Paying Rs 2.2 Trillion for ‘Ghost’ Electricity: PDP Warns

Pakistani consumers are reportedly paying Rs 2.2 trillion for “ghost” electricity- power that is neither produced nor consumed, according to Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman Altaf Shakoor.

Shakoor said this so-called ghost electricity is billed through capacity charges, benefiting Independent Power Producers (IPPs) while burdening households and businesses. He criticized the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) for favoring private power producers instead of protecting consumers, despite being established nearly three decades ago to ensure fair electricity pricing.

He added that past agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), approved by government officials, were allegedly flawed and financially favored the producers, allowing them to earn from electricity that was never generated or used. Shakoor described the situation as a “financial coup” against the nation, claiming that it was carried out with the support of some government authorities.

The PDP leader warned that the growing financial burden on consumers could trigger public unrest and called on authorities to take immediate steps to ensure electricity is supplied at fair and sustainable rates. He also urged accountability for officials involved in approving the disputed agreements.

Shakoor said the issue not only affects the economy but also poses a national security concern, as rising prices could lead to mass protests.