ISLAMABAD: Electricity consumers in Pakistan may face an increase of Rs2.56 per unit, potentially placing an additional financial burden of Rs32.7 billion on consumers.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) held a hearing on a request seeking an increase in electricity tariffs. During the proceedings, officials of the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) stated that prices of various fuels, including regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), had risen in the international market. Coal prices had also increased by $15 per tonne, they added.
Officials told the hearing that prices for RLNG spot cargoes had reached $28 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). A bid of $27 per MMBtu was received for LNG procurement; however, the cost was expected to rise to $33 per MMBtu after the inclusion of additional charges. Consequently, the procurement process was cancelled.
The CPPA has filed a request for an increase in electricity tariffs under the monthly fuel cost adjustment for September.
If NEPRA approves the request, consumers could face an additional burden of Rs32.7 billion. However, the proposed increase of Rs2.56 per unit is not yet final, and the authority will make the final decision after considering the request.
