Engineers Study Forum Urges Government on Power Supply Rates

The Executive Council of the Registered Think Tank - Engineers Study Forum in Lahore has urged the Federal Government and NEPRA to avoid raising power supply rates for consumers due to the already high costs involved. They stress the importance of accurately determining the actual cost of power supply services, noting that the capital cost of the power system is already included in current tariffs.

Furthermore, the Council has highlighted the need to reduce technical power losses, pointing out that public sector power plants operate at only 30% efficiency, while IPPs achieve around 40% efficiency. They also emphasize the necessity of addressing technical losses in the distribution system resulting from lower power factors.

Expressing concerns about the potential consequences of increased power rates, the Council has warned about the impact on inflation and the cost of living, particularly for low-income individuals. They advocate for updating the power tariff structure and propose the construction of a mega hydel dam with provincial cooperation to generate affordable power and boost the national economy.

The Engineers Study Forum, led by Chairman Mian Fazal Ahmad and Senior Executive Member Muhammad Irfan Akhtar, has previously participated in an international conference in the UK, where they argued against raising power rates as a strategy for economic growth. The meeting emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive review of the power tariff system to ensure fair pricing and sustainable development.

The concerns raised by the Engineers Study Forum shed light on the complexities of power supply pricing and the potential impacts on consumers and the economy. It is crucial for policymakers to consider these factors carefully and work towards a transparent and efficient power tariff system that benefits all stakeholders.