KCCI Urges NEPRA to Address Concerns over K-Electric Charges and Surcharges

KCCI Calls for Urgent NEPRA Hearing on K-Electric Issues

The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called on the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to urgently convene a hearing with all relevant stakeholders to address pressing issues related to K-Electric (KE) that are significantly impacting both industrial and domestic consumers in Karachi.

In a letter addressed to NEPRA Chairman Waseem Mukhtar on Tuesday, KCCI President Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh highlighted several concerns over the current power tariffs and surcharges imposed by KE.

PHL Surcharge and Its Financial Impact

Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh expressed regret over the imposition of the Power Holding Limited (PHL) surcharge of Rs3.23 per unit, which he claims has placed a considerable financial burden on Karachi’s consumers.

He argued that this surcharge is unjust, as Karachi’s consumers are not participants in the circular debt issue. The KCCI president urged NEPRA to review and reconsider the continuation of this surcharge, emphasizing the need for a fairer approach to electricity pricing.

Disparity in Fuel Adjustment Charges

Sheikh also pointed out a significant disparity in fuel adjustment charges. While other distribution companies (Discos) in the country are passing on minimal fuel adjustments, K-Electric imposes higher adjustments ranging between Rs3 and Rs5 per unit. This discrepancy has further added to the financial strain on Karachi’s consumers.

KCCI’s Call to Action

The KCCI has urged NEPRA to take immediate steps to review the concerns raised by Karachi’s business community and consumers. Moreover, it calls for a transparent hearing to address these issues and find equitable solutions that align with the interests of all stakeholders.

Conclusion

Given the rising concerns over electricity surcharges and fuel adjustments, the KCCI’s call for an urgent hearing underscores the need for regulatory intervention to ensure fair electricity pricing for Karachi’s consumers.