The Power Division on Friday announced a power relief scheme — called the “Bijli Sahulat” package — offering reduced electricity rates to consumers to encourage electricity use during the low-demand winter season.
On Thursday, the division also announced on X that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) notified an Rs1.28 per unit decrease in electricity charges due to the adjustment of fuel prices in September.
Meanwhile, in September, Nepra allowed an Rs1.743 per unit increase in electricity rates across the country for three months — Sept to Nov — to provide Rs43.23 billion funds to ex-Wapda distribution companies.
According to a statement issued by the Power Division on Friday, the reduced rates will be offered to domestic, commercial and industrial consumers from December 2024 until February 2025, “in an effort to manage seasonal electricity demand and drive economic growth”.
A flat rate of Rs26.07 per unit “will be offered for any additional electricity demand above the benchmark historical average”, the statement read. “This will allow industries, commercial, general services and households to save significantly compared to the prevailing tariffs.”
Furthermore, the new rates will only apply to 25pc units over the reference benchmark, with all incremental sales over 25pc charged at existing rates notified by the government.
The statement added that industries consuming additional electricity beyond the historical benchmark can avail an 18-37 per cent discount on prevailing power rates.
“The government is committed to fostering increased industrial and commercial activity as a driver of economic growth,” the statement added.
“Households will also benefit from the discounted rate for additional winter electricity consumption, making it an attractive option for heating and other energy needs that would otherwise rely on gas.”
The Power Division, per the statement, will continue introducing new schemes to maximise electricity usage and support Pakistan’s economic growth.
Power Minister Awais Khan Leghari took to X to announce the package, which he termed the “Government of Pakistan’s important initiative”. He wrote, “A special discount on the use of excess electricity will not only reduce electricity costs but also boost the economy.”
