Relief for power consumers as government retains subsidy on up to 200 units

ISLAMABAD: The government will continue providing electricity subsidies to protected consumers using up to 200 units per month, Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari said, assuring millions of households that there is no plan to withdraw the relief measure.

Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, the minister said more than 20 million consumers currently benefit from the subsidy, which is reflected directly in their monthly electricity bills. He said the government remains committed to supporting low-income and deserving consumers while pursuing broader reforms in the power sector.

Leghari said eligible consumers can access billing information through QR codes printed on electricity bills, adding that efforts are underway to expand the system to all consumers nationwide.

More than 20 million consumers receiving relief

According to the minister, consumers using less than 200 units of electricity per month continue to receive subsidized rates under the protected consumer category.

He said the subsidy program remains an important component of the government’s efforts to reduce the financial burden on households amid ongoing energy sector reforms.

Government cites progress in power sector reforms

Leghari said reforms introduced in the energy sector are producing positive results, including improvements in financial management and consumer services.

He stated that circular debt in the power sector has been reduced by Rs780 billion and that electricity meters linked to national identity cards now cover around two million consumers.

Household electricity bills decline

The minister said electricity prices have declined over the past two years, contributing to lower bills for consumers.

According to official figures shared by Leghari, average household electricity bills have fallen by 16 percent, while bills for protected consumers have decreased by 32 percent.

He reiterated that the government will continue targeted subsidies for eligible consumers while implementing measures aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability across the power sector.

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