NEPRA approves Rs1.63/unit fuel cost hike for January

ISLAMABAD: Electricity prices have been increased by Rs1.63 per unit across the country, including Karachi, after the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) issued a notification approving a fuel price adjustment for January, adding further pressure on consumers already grappling with high energy costs.

According to the notification issued by National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the increase has been approved under the monthly Fuel Price Adjustment (FPA) mechanism. The additional charge will be recovered from consumers in their March electricity bills.

The regulator stated that the hike pertains specifically to January’s fuel cost variation. NEPRA had earlier conducted a public hearing on the matter and had reserved its decision before formally announcing the increase.

The latest adjustment will apply to consumers nationwide, including those served in Karachi. However, NEPRA clarified that the increase will not be applicable to lifeline consumers and electric vehicle charging stations, providing limited relief to vulnerable segments and promoting e-mobility infrastructure.

Fuel Price Adjustment is a routine mechanism that allows power distribution companies to pass on variations in fuel costs—whether increases or decreases—to consumers. With this latest revision, households and businesses are expected to see a noticeable rise in their upcoming bills.

The development comes amid continued volatility in energy prices, further intensifying financial strain on domestic and commercial electricity users.