Energy Minister Owais Leghari Says 70% Electricity Subsidy for Large Consumer Base Not Feasible

Karachi: Federal Minister for Energy Owais Leghari has stated that providing a 70% discount on electricity to a large segment of consumers is not feasible for the state.

Speaking on a private TV program, he noted that the number of electricity consumers using less than 200 units has surged from 9 million to over 21 million.

Leghari added that many affluent individuals install solar systems to reduce their consumption below 200 units, effectively qualifying for subsidies intended for lower-usage households. “Providing heavy subsidies to such a large segment becomes challenging for the state,” he said.

The minister also highlighted that under recent industrial relief measures, the Prime Minister has announced the elimination of cross-subsidies. He further stated that electricity rates for industries in Pakistan are now approaching levels seen in other countries in the region, and dismissed claims that electricity in Bangladesh costs 6–7 cents per unit as inaccurate.