The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has authorized a rise in electricity tariffs by 35 paisa per unit as part of its routine quarterly adjustment for the period spanning October to December 2025. This decision, announced on Tuesday, will come into effect starting March 1, 2026, and remain applicable until the end of May 2026. The adjustment is expected to impose an additional financial load exceeding Rs 8.67 billion on electricity consumers across Pakistan.
This latest increment follows a consistent pattern of tariff revisions observed throughout the current fiscal year. For instance, during the July to September 2025 quarter, NEPRA had sanctioned a 33 paisa per unit increase, which was implemented from December 2025 through February 2026. Such periodic adjustments are part of NEPRA’s mandate to align electricity prices with fluctuating fuel costs, ensuring the sustainability of the power sector.
NEPRA has forwarded its recommendation to the federal government for official endorsement and notification, a procedural step required before the new rates can be formally applied. Once notified, the revised tariff will be reflected in consumers’ electricity bills starting March 2026, affecting all major electric distribution companies operating nationwide. This includes residential, commercial, and industrial users, with the exception of certain categories.
It is important to note that the regulatory authority has exempted lifeline tariff consumers—those who use minimal electricity and are often from low-income households—as well as electric vehicle charging stations from this price increase. This exemption aims to protect vulnerable segments of society and encourage the adoption of electric vehicles without imposing additional financial strain.
The quarterly adjustment mechanism employed by NEPRA is designed to pass through changes in fuel prices to consumers in a transparent and timely manner. This approach helps maintain the financial viability of power generation companies while providing consumers with advance notice of upcoming changes. NEPRA emphasized that such tariff revisions are carefully reviewed and communicated ahead of time, allowing households and businesses to anticipate and manage their electricity expenses accordingly.
Overall, this incremental hike underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan’s energy sector, which grapples with fluctuating fuel costs and the need to balance affordability with operational sustainability. As the country continues to navigate these complexities, consumers are advised to stay informed about tariff changes and explore energy-saving measures to mitigate the impact on their monthly bills.
