ECC approves increase in power tariffs, Rs1.25 per unit hike likely

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved an increase in the power rates during a meeting on Wednesday. Finance Minister Asad Umar said that the power rates had been increased less than the expected increase. The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) had demanded an increase of Rs 3.81 per unit. Sources said that a 10 percent increase has been made for consumption up to 300-700 units, while the rate of over 700 units will witness a 15 percent increase. They added that for domestic consumers, the power rate has been increased by Rs 1.25 per unit. However, no increase has been made for the consumers up to 5KW. For commercial consumers, up to Rs 3.50 per unit increase has been made as per load. The sources said that the power has been increased as per the NEPRA rate. For industrial consumers, Rs3 per unit relief under the PM Support Package will continue. The power rates will be reviewed next year.