How did you feel when you looked at your latest electricity bill? Outraged, I bet! On Friday, widespread protests surged nationwide as people took to the streets to voice their opposition against the high electricity bills.
Protests and gatherings took place outside the offices of electricity distribution companies in various cities across the country. In Karachi, traders in the old city area and members of Jamaat-e-Islami organized a protest outside K-Electric offices.
The protestors demanded the recent electricity price increases to be undone. The business community also cautioned that if the price hike isn’t undone, they might prevent K-Electric staff from entering markets.
In Multan, demonstrators obstructed roads and shouted slogans against the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO)—similarly, residents assembled outside the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) office in Gujranwala.
In several cities, protestors also voiced slogans opposing the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and set fire to their electricity bills.
The previous month, the federal cabinet gave the go-ahead to the power regulator’s proposal to raise the average nationwide tariff for electricity. As a result, starting from July 1, 2023, the uniform electricity tariff across the country went up by as much as Rs. 7.5 per unit. This increase caused the final electricity cost, including additional charges and taxes, to surpass Rs. 55 per unit for specific groups.
How Can the Electricity Price Be Reduced for the Consumers?
Reducing electricity costs for consumers involves a multifaceted approach. First, investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power can harness sustainable, low-cost energy.
Additionally, enhancing energy efficiency in appliances, industries, and homes can curtail consumption. Governments can implement policies to promote competition among energy providers, leading to competitive pricing. Smart grids and advanced technologies can optimize distribution, minimizing wastage.
A blend of renewable energy integration, efficiency upgrades, market competition, and demand management can pave the way for more affordable electricity.