ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled a major three year “Roshan Economy Power Package” aimed at reducing electricity costs for industries and farmers to revive production, boost exports and create jobs without increasing the financial burden on households.
Under this package, electricity will cost Rs22.98 per unit, but only on additional consumption beyond last year’s usage. Normal rates will still apply for the same level of consumption. The plan will remain in effect from November 2025 to October 2028.
Key Features of the Package
- Discounted electricity: Rs22.98 per unit for industries and farmers on extra units used above last year’s consumption.
- Current rates are Rs34 for industries and Rs38 for agriculture; this package reduces costs significantly.
- No additional burden will be placed on households or other consumer categories.
- Aims to utilise 7,000 megawatts of surplus electricity instead of wasting it.
Why It Matters
PM Shehbaz said the package is designed to strengthen the backbone of the economy industry and agriculture by making them more competitive regionally and attracting new investment. He stated that economic stability is beginning to show results, but further progress depends on collective effort, smart policies, and continued cooperation with the business community.
Expected Impact
- Farmers will save around Rs7 per unit, and industries about Rs5 per unit on additional usage.
- The more electricity factories and farms use beyond last year’s level, the lower the average tariff becomes.
- For industries: Tariff may drop from Rs34.9 to Rs32.5 (25% more usage), Rs30.9 (50% more), or Rs28.9 (double usage).
- For agriculture: Rates may fall from Rs32.2 to Rs30.3 (25% more usage), Rs29.1 (50% more), or Rs27.6 if doubled.
Praise for Energy Team & Economic Revival
The prime minister appreciated Energy Minister Sardar Awais Leghari and his team for designing the relief scheme. He recalled how last winter’s incentive resulted in 410 GWh additional electricity use, helping factories run, exports grow, and jobs increase.
Nepra Fines Lesco Rs25 Million
In a separate development, Nepra fined the Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) Rs25 million for failing to reduce transmission and distribution losses and for ignoring a show-cause notice. The regulator said Lesco admitted to overbilling consumers and not improving performance. Lesco has been ordered to pay the fine within 15 days.
PM’s Meeting with Business Leaders
During a high-level meeting with industrialists and business leaders, PM Shehbaz stressed:
- Support for both local and foreign investors.
- Removing barriers for new businesses.
- Expanding exports and setting up new industries.
- Turning economic stability into long-term prosperity.
Officials from finance, commerce, energy, railways, IT, food security and other ministries attended the session.
Export Concerns Raised by Industry
Textile industrialist Ziad Bashir warned that Pakistan’s export sector is on the brink of collapse due to “policy induced impossibility.” His key concerns included:
- Over 300% rise in gas tariffs for export industries.
- Withdrawal of Export Financing Scheme (EFS).
- Delayed tax refunds and liquidity crisis.
- High energy costs compared to India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
- Ports acting as feeders instead of trade hubs, causing delays and losses.
- Uncompetitive taxation: exporters pay 2.25% while local businesses pay 1.25%.
- Low export-focused foreign investment.
Bashir suggested a uniform energy tariff nationwide, removal of super tax on exporters, end of carbon levy on industrial fuel, and fair taxation to support export growth.
the government’s new power relief plan is seen as a bold attempt to energize Pakistan’s economy, support its producers, and reduce reliance on foreign debt. However, industry leaders warn that without deeper reforms, rising costs and policy instability may continue to hinder export growth.
