Govt limits installment relief for electricity bills to once a year

ISLAMABAD: Nepra, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority, recently revised the Consumer Service Manual for 2021, imposing new constraints on power companies regarding installment options for electricity bills. Consequently, consumers have lost the ability to pay their bills in multiple installments as previously allowed.

Formerly, consumers could avail themselves of the installment option twice a year, but Nepra’s recent decision limits this to just once per financial year. Nepra has directed all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) to implement this amendment immediately.

The decision to amend the Consumer Service Manual came after extensive consultations with stakeholders and a public hearing held on December 19, 2023, as stated in Nepra’s notification.

Additionally, Nepra has instructed that the due date for electricity bills will not be extended under any circumstances, including official holidays falling on the last day of bill submission. Failure to pay bills by the due date will incur a late payment surcharge, irrespective of public holidays, Nepra emphasized.

These amendments to the Consumer Service Manual will apply to all consumers of DISCOs, including K-Electric.