NEPRA Fines Three Power Firms Rs140 Million Over Inefficiency

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has imposed heavy fines totaling Rs140 million on three state-owned electricity distribution companies.

The penalties were announced following an in-depth review of their poor operational performance during the 2023–24 fiscal period.

The fines target the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO).

Investigation conducted by NEPRA revealed widespread inefficiencies within their systems, prompting decisive regulatory action against the firms.

According to the authority, these companies were involved in over-billing, inaccurate data reporting, and consistent failure to improve revenue collection mechanisms.

The regulator said such persistent lapses indicate weak governance and a lack of accountability within the power distribution network.

Read More: Pakistan Receives $1B Oil Facility and $5B Deposits

NEPRA has directed the companies to deposit the fines within 15 days, warning that non-compliance could trigger further regulatory penalties.

Earlier, GEPCO was also fined an additional Rs10 million for neglecting essential safety protocols aimed at preventing electrical accidents.

The penalty followed GEPCO’s unsatisfactory response to a show-cause notice and its failure to properly earth numerous electricity poles under its jurisdiction.

NEPRA further instructed the company to complete earthing of all remaining steel structures within three months to minimize electrical hazards.

The regulator emphasized that these actions reflect its firm stance against chronic inefficiencies and safety violations plaguing Pakistan’s power distribution sector.