Daily Times

As the real winter bite has yet to sting the people, the government has come up with a power relief scheme, the Bijli Sahulat package, claiming that the package promises reduced electricity rates for consumers across Pakistan during the winter season.

For three months, from December to February, domestic, commercial and industrial users can expect lower power costs for additional usage. A flat rate of Rs 26.07 per unit will apply to consumption above a certain threshold, allowing households and businesses to save substantially on their electricity bills. In other words, the government is asking the consumers to use more electricity in winter months, when the usage goes down.

While this relief package brings immediate benefits, such measures only bring forth the need for a more sustainable approach to energy affordability. Periodic reductions, while temporarily helpful, often signal a deeper issue with the cost structure of electricity in Pakistan.

This recurring approach can create dependency on short-term fixes. This distracts from essential reforms and long-term planning. To truly address Pakistan’s energy needs, policymakers must shift focus from seasonal discounts to implementing a comprehensive, year-round policy aimed at making power consistently affordable and accessible.

Energy-intensive industries and small businesses are to benefit greatly from lower energy costs. This can indeed drive economic growth by reducing operational expenses. This will also allow for expansion and stability across various sectors. However, to maintain this growth, the government must look beyond temporary tariff adjustments.

Investment in infrastructure, renewable energy resources, and energy efficiency measures are needed to keep power rates affordable throughout the year. Encouraging renewable energy options to reduce transmission losses and upgrade the national grid could bring stability and lower electricity costs sustainably.

In the coming years, rising energy demand and fluctuating fuel prices will likely place continued pressure on power generation costs. A lasting solution requires a blend of improved power generation, transmission efficiency, and regulatory reforms to stabilise energy prices. Relying solely on short-term packages without addressing underlying inefficiencies is unlikely to secure the country’s long-term energy stability.

The current relief package, though appreciated by consumers, should act as a reminder of the urgency for structural reforms. *