The federal government has started work on a proposal to provide cheaper electricity to Pakistan’s telecom operators by extending industrial electricity tariffs to the sector, following its recent decision to grant the telecom industry industrial status.
According to sources close to the matter as informed to Techjuice, the initiative aims to reduce operating costs for telecom companies and improve the sustainability of telecommunications services across the country.
A joint task force has held its first consultative meeting to discuss the implementation of industrial electricity tariffs for telecom operators. The meeting focused on developing a practical mechanism and preparing a comprehensive framework for the new tariff structure.
The task force was formed under the policy directive for the IMT Spectrum Auction and includes representatives from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), the Power Division, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), telecom operators, and electricity distribution companies.
During the meeting, telecom operators said that commercial electricity tariffs have significantly increased operating costs and placed financial pressure on the industry. They argued that the telecom sector contributes substantial tax revenues to the national economy and should receive industrial electricity rates, particularly as telecommunications have become an essential public service.
The task force also reviewed measures to improve the reliability of telecom networks during extended power outages. Discussions included the introduction of smart grid solutions, dedicated power feeders, and other measures aimed at ensuring uninterrupted telecom services nationwide.
According to sources, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication will prepare the task force’s Terms of Reference (ToRs). Participants also agreed to hold the next meeting within the next 10 days to finalize recommendations.
The proposed framework is expected to support the government’s broader digital connectivity goals by lowering energy costs for telecom operators while improving network resilience and service continuity.
