All national power distribution companies, including K-Electric, face accusations of overcharging on already high electricity tariffs. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended the bill payment deadline by 10 days.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) disclosed these findings on Wednesday, citing an inquiry identifying widespread overbilling issues.
Following a thorough investigation into the April to June 2024 complaints, Nepra’s officers confirmed these practices.
Separately, the Ministry of Energy announced the Prime Minister’s directive to extend July and August electricity bill payments for 10 days to ease consumer hardships.
Nepra has demanded explanations from all power companies regarding overbilling and instructed them to compensate affected consumers. Companies must adjust bills based on accurate meter readings.
Consumers unable to pay the adjusted bills will not face late fees, and those overcharged will see corrections in subsequent billing cycles.
Nepra also mandated immediately replacing faulty meters to ensure accurate billing and compliance with consumer service standards. Power companies must report back to Nepra within 30 days on these actions.
Nepra is conducting formal proceedings against these companies, including potential fines for responsible staff based on upcoming investigative findings.
In December 2023, Nepra identified similar malpractices among all distributors following nationwide consumer complaints about billing errors during mid-2023.
This recurring issue raises concerns about the integrity of these companies’ billing and revenue processes.
Despite Nepra’s findings last year, the power division initially disputed the report but later confirmed the regulatory body’s conclusions without attributing malicious intent to company management.
In reaction to the recent Nepra statement, K-Electric has yet to review the report but encourages customers facing billing issues to seek help through their customer care centres or social media platforms.
