ISLAMABAD — The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has approved changes to Pakistan’s electricity tariff structure, imposing fixed charges on domestic consumers using up to 300 units per month while reducing per-unit rates for industrial users and higher-consumption households. Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a review of Nepra’s new solar regulations to protect existing consumers.

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Per-unit relief for industry and households PM orders review of solar regulations

The revised tariff decision, issued on the request of the Power Division, expands fixed charges to both protected and non-protected domestic consumers using up to 300 units. Previously, fixed charges applied only to non-protected consumers using more than 300 units per month.

Under the new structure, protected consumers using up to 100 units will pay Rs200 in fixed charges, while those using up to 200 units will pay Rs300. For non-protected consumers, fixed charges range from Rs275 for up to 100 units to Rs350 for up to 300 units.

Consumers in the 301–400 unit bracket will face Rs400 in fixed charges, increasing to Rs500 for 401–500 units. Those consuming up to 600 units will pay Rs675. Fixed charges for 601–700 units and above 700 units are set at Rs675, reflecting reductions of Rs125 and Rs325 respectively. Lifeline consumers using up to 100 units remain exempt from fixed charges.

Per-unit relief for industry and households

Nepra has also reduced electricity rates for industrial consumers by Rs4.40 per unit. Domestic consumers in higher usage brackets will receive per-unit relief, including Rs1.53 per unit for 301–400 units, Rs1.25 for 401–500 units, Rs1.40 for 501–600 units, 91 paisas for 601–700 units and 49 paisas for consumption above 700 units.

Officials said the federal government will issue a formal notification of the revised tariff after Nepra’s decision is forwarded for final consideration.

PM orders review of solar regulations

In a separate development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of Nepra’s new solar regulations and chaired a high-level meeting to review their impact on existing solar power users.

The prime minister directed the Power Division to immediately file an appeal with Nepra to ensure protection of contracts for current solar consumers. He emphasized that the interests of approximately 466,000 solar users should be safeguarded and that any financial burden should not be shifted to 37.6 million grid consumers.

Officials said the government is seeking a balanced approach that protects contractual rights while maintaining stability in the broader electricity system.

The latest tariff revision and solar policy review come amid ongoing efforts to manage power sector costs and adjust pricing structures for different consumer categories.