The consumers of Karachi Electric (K-Electric) could be in for some bad news, as the authorities are mulling over increasing the electricity tariff by over Rs3 per unit.K-Electric has submitted an application with the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) for an increase of Rs2.35 per unit in terms of quarterly adjustments.
According to the application, another increase of 67 paisa per unit should be made in terms of arrears.If the request is approved, the electricity consumers of Karachi will bear an additional financial burden of Rs1.6 billion.NEPRA is scheduled to hold a hearing on K-Electric’s application on October 19.Just a week ago, NEPRA had increased the cost of electricity by Rs1.71 per unit under the head of monthly fuel adjustment.
The adjustment in the tariff was made for the month of August and will be charged in the bills for October. A notification for the tariff raise was also issued.The increase was not applicable to K-Electric and lifeline customers. The Central Power Purchasing Authority had sought an increase in electricity tariff of Rs1.82 per unit. After conducting a hearing, NEPRA approved 10 paisa less than what was demanded. The tariff increase will put an additional burden of Rs30 billion on power consumers.
Amid tough economic conditions, many citizens are facing a crunch in the payment of their utility bills. As a customer-centric organization committed to facilitate customers, KE has partnered with Bank Alfalah to offer a cashback facility on the payment of KE bills.
The offer is valid from October 1, 2023 to November 30, 2023 only for Bank Alfalah accounts, credit cards, wallet and orbits customers who make payments through Alfa QR services. Bank Alfalah customers can avail this facility by scanning a QR code posted on their bills and receive a cashbackof PKR 500 per unique Alfa registered CNIC.
The bill amount must exceed PKR 2,000 in order for the customers to be eligible. Complete terms and conditions and FAQs are also available on KE’s website.Digital banking and online interactions have seen a significant rise in the last few years, as more customers seek convenience and savings.
Recognizing this trend, KE has partnered with a number of financial institutions to assist customers with their bill payments. With a focus on digitalization, the company has over 1.3 million customers interacting virtually with the business through various channels. The partnership with Bank Alfalah is an extension of the same mission.