The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has started charging its Grade 18–20 officers for electricity after ending a free electricity benefit they had received for nearly 30 years.
Under the previous policy, these officers were entitled to free electricity units each year. With the benefit now withdrawn, they will be required to pay their electricity bills in full.
Previously, Grade 18 officers received 6,000 free units, Grade 19 officers 8,000 free units, and Grade 20 officers 10,000 free units annually.
LESCO officers argue that the restoration of the perk in other companies is unlawful. They say the free electricity facility should be abolished and have urged the Ministry of Energy to introduce a uniform policy nationwide.
Earlier, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) raised electricity prices by Rs0.34 per unit.
According to an official statement, NEPRA decided on the request of the Power Division, effectively easing regulatory conditions for small-scale solar energy producers.
The decision follows directives from Federal Minister for Energy Awais Leghari, who had instructed the Power Division to pursue regulatory simplification for solar consumers.
Due to rising electricity costs, more people in Pakistan are turning to solar power for their homes. As a result, Pakistan has become the world’s third-largest importer of solar panels.
