NEPRA Implements Stricter Electricity Bill Instalment Rules

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has recently implemented strict measures regarding electricity bill instalments, further complicating the ongoing inflation crisis in Pakistan. The updated Consumer Service Manual for 2021 has introduced new limitations on power companies, particularly affecting consumers who rely on instalments to manage their high electricity bills.

Under the revised regulations, consumers are now allowed to make only one instalment payment per year without incurring any interest, as long as it is paid by the due date. Any subsequent instalments will be subject to a 14% markup, and requests for extending the due date must be made before the original deadline.

Moreover, power distribution companies are now mandated to issue computerised bills for instalment payments and due date extension requests. The recent proposal by the caretaker government in 2023 to permit consumers with bills of up to 400 units to pay in six-month instalments aims to alleviate the financial burden on the public.

These regulatory changes, along with the increase in electricity rates, are partly influenced by the stringent conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a prerequisite for providing loans to Pakistan.

The new regulations imposed by NEPRA regarding electricity bill instalments have significant implications for consumers in Pakistan. It is essential for individuals to be aware of these changes and plan their payments accordingly to avoid additional costs. Understanding the impact of these regulations can help consumers make informed decisions about managing their electricity bills effectively.