NEPRA Warns Weak Power Transmission System Driving Up Electricity Costs in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has warned that Pakistan’s weak power transmission system is causing higher electricity costs for consumers.

In its Transmission Performance Evaluation Report for fiscal year 2024–25, NEPRA highlighted that overloaded grid stations, delayed projects, and poor coordination are forcing the country to generate expensive electricity. The regulator also noted that weak links between K-Electric and the NTDC (National Transmission and Despatch Company) hinder the efficient supply of cheaper national electricity.

According to NEPRA, these weaknesses in the national grid are undermining the Economic Merit Order principle, which prioritizes the use of low-cost electricity. Instead, expensive power plants are being operated, directly impacting electricity bills for both domestic and industrial consumers.

The report pointed out that many grid stations and power transformers are operating at more than 80% of their capacity, leading to voltage instability, potential damage to equipment, and increased risk of breakdowns.