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In a major step toward price consistency and consumer protection, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has approved the federal government’s plan to implement a Uniform Electricity Tariff across Pakistan. The decision brings consumers of K-Electric and all public-sector Distribution Companies (DISCOs) under a single, synchronized pricing framework.
The move is aimed at eliminating long-standing regional tariff disparities while maintaining stability in the power market during the FY2026 period. NEPRA has retained the existing base tariff, signaling a cautious approach amid ongoing economic and energy-sector challenges.
Residential Electricity Tariffs: Key Breakdown
Under the new notification, electricity prices will follow a tiered structure, balancing affordability for low-income households with cost recovery for higher consumption brackets.
| Consumer Category | Monthly Units | Rate per Unit (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | Up to 50 | 3.95 |
| Lifeline | 51–100 | 7.74 |
| Protected | 1–100 | 10.54 |
| Protected | 101–200 | 13.01 |
| Non-Protected | 1–100 | 22.44 |
| Upper Tier | 700+ | 47.69 |
Pricing Strategy and Market Signals
Industry analysts note that the maximum tariff has been capped at Rs 47.69 per unit, providing a ceiling for high-consumption users. Notably, NEPRA had earlier approved a 62-paisa reduction in the base tariff for 2026, a modest adjustment aimed at easing pressure on consumers while addressing circular debt concerns.
For middle-income, non-protected households, tariffs now rise progressively, from Rs 28.91 for 101–200 units to Rs 42.76 for 601–700 units, offering predictability for household budgeting and commercial planning.
Economic and Commercial Impact
The unification of tariffs between K-Electric and DISCOs is being viewed positively by businesses and industry stakeholders, who say it creates a level playing field across regions. The move is also expected to simplify subsidy management, enhance transparency, and improve the overall financial governance of Pakistan’s power sector.
While the tariff structure does not deliver major relief, policymakers believe the uniform framework lays the groundwork for more efficient reforms in the energy market going forward.
