ISLAMABAD – Confusion spread quickly after reports surfaced suggesting that electricity subsidies for households using up to 200 units might be withdrawn, sparking concern among consumers already struggling with rising bills.
As speculation grew about possible increases in monthly costs, officials moved in to calm situation. Ministry of Energy clarified that no such proposal is under consideration, dismissing the claims while acknowledging that data checks are underway to ensure subsidies are not being misused.
Reports suggesting that electricity subsidies for consumers using up to 200 units may be discontinued triggered widespread concern among the public, prompting Ministry of Energy to swiftly issue a clarification saying no such proposal is currently under consideration.
According to DISCO sources, authorities started reviewing cases involving consumers who are reportedly using more than one electricity meter within a single household or benefiting from installed solar systems while still receiving subsidized electricity rates. The move has raised concerns about potential misuse of the subsidy framework.
Sources further claim that in several instances, suspected irregularities in subsidy usage have been identified, leading to a data verification process being carried out through QR codes printed on electricity bills.
Under the current system, consumers using up to 200 units of electricity are reportedly receiving a monthly relief of approximately Rs. 5,000. However, if the subsidy were to be withdrawn, electricity bills currently around Rs. 2,000 could surge sharply to nearly Rs. 7,000, according to estimates circulating in official circles.
On the other hand, a spokesperson for Ministry of Energy strongly denied these reports, saying that there is no proposal under consideration to end the subsidy for consumers using up to 200 units, nor any plan to withdraw relief for households operating more than one meter in a single residence.
The spokesperson clarified that QR codes on electricity bills have been introduced solely to provide consumers with detailed breakdowns of monthly subsidy amounts.
It was further stressed that in cases where a house is divided into separate portions or where family members live independently within the same premises, there is no policy under consideration to discontinue subsidies.
Ministry of Energy said the government’s objective remains to ensure greater convenience and continued relief for consumers, adding that the existing subsidy framework will remain in place while data verification measures continue for transparency and oversight.
