Electricity costs in Pakistan are a crucial concern for households and businesses. Understanding fluctuations in electricity rates can help individuals and companies manage their expenses more effectively. This blog provides updated information on electricity unit prices in Pakistan, the factors influencing them, Pakistan’s Electricity and practical strategies to reduce your electricity bill.
Electricity Distribution Companies in Pakistan
Pakistan has a network of nine major electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) responsible for ensuring a stable electricity supply across various regions.
List of Electricity Distribution Companies:
- Abbottabad Electric Power Company (AESCO) – Covers Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, and Kohistan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) – Serves Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, and Chiniot in Punjab.
- Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) – Covers Gujranwala, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, and Narowal in Punjab.
- Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) – Serves Hyderabad, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Mirpurkhas, Tando Muhammad Khan, and Matiari in Sindh.
- Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) – Supplies electricity to Islamabad and surrounding areas.
- Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) – Covers Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, and Okara in Punjab.
- Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) – Supplies electricity to Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Khanewal, Vehari, and Bahawalpur in Punjab.
- Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) – Serves Peshawar, Kohat, Swabi, Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera, and Dera Ismail Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO) – Covers Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Khairpur, and Kashmore in Sindh.
Electricity Pricing in Pakistan
Electricity rates in Pakistan are influenced by fuel costs, government policies, and demand-supply dynamics. The latest unit prices are as follows:
| Units | Price (Rs) |
|---|---|
| 1 – 100 | 22 |
| 101 – 200 | 36.90 |
| 201 – 300 | 39.10 |
| 301 – 400 | 41.40 |
| 401 – 500 | 43.10 |
| 501 – 600 | 44.10 |
| 601 – 700 | 52 |
| Above 700 | 65 |
The recent increase in electricity rates was regulated by NEPRA and the Pakistani government.
Electricity Tariff Structure in Pakistan
Electricity tariffs in Pakistan are categorized based on consumer type:
- Domestic Rate: Designed for households, typically lower than commercial and industrial rates.
- Commercial Rate: Applied to businesses and commercial establishments, slightly higher than domestic rates.
- Industrial Rate: Highest tariff for large-scale industries due to their extensive electricity usage.
Peak and Off-Peak Electricity Hours in Pakistan
Electricity demand varies during different times of the day, affecting unit prices.
Peak Hours (Higher Rates)
| Season | Peak Time | Off-Peak Time |
| Dec – Feb | 5 PM – 9 PM | Remaining 20 hours |
| Mar – May | 6 PM – 10 PM | Remaining 20 hours |
| Jun – Aug | 7 PM – 11 PM | Remaining 20 hours |
| Sep – Nov | 6 PM – 10 PM | Remaining 20 hours |
Reducing electricity consumption during peak hours can significantly lower your monthly bill.
How to Calculate Your Electricity Bill
To calculate your monthly electricity bill:
- Record Meter Readings: Note the meter reading at the beginning and end of the month.
- Calculate Consumption: Subtract the initial reading from the final reading.
- Multiply by Unit Price: Multiply the total units consumed by the applicable rate.
- Add Fixed Charges: Include service charges, meter rent, and taxes.
- Final Bill: Sum up all costs.
Example:
If your monthly consumption is 500 units and the rate is Rs. 43.10 per unit: (500 units * Rs. 43.10) + fixed charges = Total bill amount.
How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill
1. Optimize Usage During Non-Peak Hours
- Shift energy-intensive activities like laundry and dishwashing to off-peak hours.
- Utilize time-of-use tariffs where applicable.
2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
- Invest in Energy Star-rated appliances for reduced electricity consumption.
- Replace old, inefficient appliances with newer energy-saving models.
3. Reduce Energy Consumption
- Turn Off Unused Electronics: Switch off unnecessary lights, fans, and appliances.
- Use Natural Light: Maximize daylight instead of artificial lighting.
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Set air conditioners and heaters to moderate temperatures.
- Insulate Your Home: Improve insulation to maintain temperature and reduce heating/cooling costs.
4. Monitor Your Consumption
- Install a Smart Meter: Track real-time electricity usage and identify patterns.
- Regularly Check Consumption: Keep an eye on your electricity usage trends.
5. Consider Solar Power
- Install Solar Panels: Reduce dependency on the grid by generating your electricity.
- Solar Inverter Options: 1 KW, 3 KW, 5 KW, and 10 KW inverters are available for installation.
