Pakistanis face higher electricity bills this winter as fuel costs surge

Electricity consumers in Pakistan could face another financial shock this winter, as rising global fuel prices and declining hydropower generation threaten to push electricity costs significantly higher between December and February.

Power Division sources have warned that the three winter months could prove particularly challenging for consumers, with fuel price adjustments (FPA) potentially increasing two to three times compared with current levels.

According to sources, rising international prices of liquefied natural gas (LNG), coal and other fuels are increasing the cost of electricity generation, raising concerns about higher power tariffs in the coming months.

A major challenge will be the shortage of locally available natural gas during winter. Domestic gas supplies are already expected to remain insufficient to meet household demand, making it difficult to provide adequate fuel to power plants.

Meanwhile, electricity generation from hydropower projects traditionally declines during winter, forcing power producers to rely more heavily on expensive imported fuels.

The combination of limited local gas supplies, reduced hydropower generation and higher international fuel prices could place additional pressure on electricity bills through increased monthly fuel price adjustments.

Power Division sources said authorities had made efforts in recent months to control the impact of fuel costs on consumers. These measures included load management of around two hours and attempts to limit the financial burden associated with fuel price adjustments.

However, the situation could become more difficult as global LNG and other fuel prices have climbed significantly.

Sources have also warned that electricity load management may increase between December and February if fuel availability and generation costs remain under pressure.

For households already struggling with inflation and rising living expenses, the prospect of higher electricity bills during the winter months could add another layer of financial hardship.

Although no official tariff increase has been announced, the warning from Power Division sources signals that consumers may face a difficult winter if international fuel prices remain elevated and cheaper domestic energy sources become less available.