KARACHI: In a potential relief for Karachi’s electricity consumers, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) is set to conduct a hearing today (Monday) on K-Electric’s request for a reduction of Rs4.69 per unit under the monthly fuel cost adjustment mechanism, a private news channel reported.
If NEPRA approves the proposal, K-Electric users could collectively benefit from an estimated financial relief of Rs7.17 billion. This comes as welcome news amid widespread frustration over high electricity bills and ongoing unannounced load-shedding across the city.
Earlier this month, on June 5, NEPRA had already slashed KE’s tariff by Rs2.99 per unit, based on March’s fuel adjustment, which is being reflected in the June billing cycle. That earlier reduction provided partial relief for many residents already burdened by the rising summer temperatures and frequent power outages.
Despite these moves, the power crisis in Karachi remains critical. Unscheduled outages have intensified, prompting protests from both citizens and public officials.
Speaking in a recent interview, K-Electric CEO Moonis Alvi acknowledged the impact of soaring power tariffs. However, he attributed the high costs to broader government policies and regulatory constraints rather than company-level pricing decisions.
The final decision from today’s NEPRA hearing will be crucial for determining whether further relief is on the horizon for KE’s vast consumer base, which continues to grapple with both heat and high electricity bills.
