Nepra allows 18-paisa raise in electricity price

The National Electric and Power Regulatory Authority on Tuesday allowed an increase of 18 paisa in the electricity price for one month, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The Nepra gave its approval to raise electricity price during hearing of a petition.

The hike has been made under the head of monthly fuel adjustment charges.

The power regulatory authority would release a detailed verdict later.

However, the Nepra’s order will not be applied to lifeline electricity consumers and K-Electric users. 

According to the decision, the consumers will have to pay an extra 18 paisa per unit from next month. 

The Nepra authorities said that in the month of November, 11% less electricity was produced from hydel sources. Due to closure of Neelam Jhelum plant, less hydel power was generated. 

During hearing, the National Power Construction Corporation (NPCC) authorities wondered that they were still provided with full gas. 

Nepra Sindh member Rafiq Sheikh pointed out that after using local gas and coal, the electricity production was improved in November.

However, the Nepra observed that due to violation of merit order, an extra burden of Rs60.6 million was incurred. 

The Sindh member said if there was less demand, why loadshedding was being observed across the country. 

Reporter Awais Kiyani