There is positive news from the electricity sector for the people under the pressure of intense heat and inflation. Electricity distribution companies across the country have requested NEPRA to transfer the savings made during the first quarter of this year to the consumers, as a result of which electricity is likely to become cheaper for the next three months.
According to power sector officials, if the regulator approves the application, consumers may get relief of about Rs 1.75 per unit from June to August. After the current quarterly adjustment is over, the total reduction is expected to be more than Rs 2.Officials say that this relief was mainly possible due to a decrease in capacity payments.
In the last few months, the burden of payments to power plants has been low, while some administrative and market operation expenses have also been reduced.
According to sources, NEPRA will hold a public hearing on the matter on May 19, after which a final decision will be announced. The power companies have taken the stand that about Rs 64 billion can be refunded due to the difference between the amount collected from consumers and the actual expenses.
Although the Power Division is calling this development a relief for the public, energy experts are warning that if the prices of oil and imported fuel remain high in the global market, the pressure on bills in terms of fuel adjustment may increase again.
According to the data, distribution companies of Faisalabad, Hyderabad and Peshawar have shown the highest savings, while consumers of Lahore and Islamabad are also expected to get significant relief.
