National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has issued stern measures for installments on electricity prices, leaving inflation stricken in dire straits. The newly announced regulations will impact those who rely on instalments to manage high electricity bills.
The updated version of Consumer Service Manual, 2021 introduces restrictions on power companies regarding the acceptance of multiple instalments for electricity bills. The new move removes the previously available option for consumers to pay their bills in several instalments.
The revised regulations aim to facilitate consumers in clearing their dues, allowing instalment payments once a year without interest on the first instalment if paid by the due date. It also mentioned that 14percent markup will be applied to subsequent instalments, and requests for due date extensions must be made before original due date.
NEPRA Electricity Payments
The Power Regulatory authority further instructed power distribution companies to issue computerised bills for instalment and due date extension requests.
In 2023, the caretaker setup considered a proposal to allow consumers with bills of up to 400 units to pay their bills in six-month instalments to pass on relief for people. These regulatory changes, along with increased electricity rates, are partly influenced by the strict conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for providing loans to Pakistan.
Pakistan increases electricity prices for June, July and August 2024
