The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has announced a fuel cost adjustment (FCA) increase of Rs. 1.46 per unit for ex-Wapda distribution companies (DISCOs).
This adjustment will impact all consumer categories except Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) and Lifeline consumers. The increase will be itemized separately on consumers’ bills based on their electricity usage in July 2023.
For XWDISCOs, the fuel cost adjustment related to July 2023 will be reflected in their September 2023 bills. It’s worth noting that the distribution companies had initially requested a higher FCA increase of Rs. 2.07 per unit.
This tariff hike is expected to add to the financial burden on the already inflation-affected public. In recent weeks, protests have erupted across the country in response to inflated power bills. Despite assurances of relief, consumers will now face higher bills in September.
The regulatory authority also ordered the Central Power Purchasing Authority (CPPA) to conduct the capacity status of WAPDA hydropower stations.
It directed that the capacity status should be conducted separately and the report of all the stations should be submitted to Nepra.
The increase in the hydropower tariff comes as people in different cities of Pakistan are protesting against the inflated electricity after receiving massive bills.
Angry people not only torched the people, but also demanded the government to withdraw additional taxes on the electricity bills. Amid the protest, the caretaker setup is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to seek relief for the masses.
