FPCCI Challenges Rs268 Billion Power Tariff Burden on Consumers

The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has opposed an additional Rs268 billion burden sought from electricity consumers through prior-year tariff adjustments.

The business body urged the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) to reject claims it considers inflated, disputed, insufficiently verified or previously disallowed.

Discos Seek Rs2.64 Trillion for 2027

Ten former Wapda distribution companies have collectively sought Rs2.64 trillion in revenue requirements for calendar year 2027 through tariff petitions.

The Rs268 billion challenged by FPCCI concerns prior-year adjustments, rather than the entire revenue requirement. These filings are requests for regulatory consideration and do not establish an approved increase in consumer bills.

FPCCI’s Energy Advisory Committee reviewed the petitions, financial statements and supporting documents. It said several claims involved historical liabilities, inconsistent calculations or inadequate disclosure.

Major Claims Come Under Scrutiny

Islamabad Electric Supply Company submitted the largest prior-year adjustment claim at Rs158 billion. FPCCI argued that 70% involved disputed amounts or noncash items and should be rejected.

The federation also challenged Rs27 billion in unverified Lahore Electric claims and Rs33 billion in Peshawar Electric claims relating to seven-year-old input tax amounts.

For Faisalabad Electric, FPCCI sought rejection of Rs26 billion involving historical post-retirement benefits and previously disallowed supplementary charges.

Written Responses and Public Hearings Requested

FPCCI asked Nepra to require companies to substantiate each component of their claims and respond in writing to its objections before public hearings.

It also requested that its objections become part of each company’s tariff proceedings and that business representatives be allowed to participate in hearings.