How Much Per unit electricity rate in Pakistan?
How Much 1 Unit of Electricity rate in Pakistan?
Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives, but its cost can often leave many of us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Whether you’re a small household or a large business, understanding how much you’re paying for each unit of electricity can help you manage your expenses better. Let’s take a closer look at the Per unit electricity rate in Pakistan and how the difference between “protected” and “unprotected” consumers affects your pocket.
Protected Consumers (Using up to 200 units/month)
If you’re part of a small household with limited electricity use, you’re most likely categorized as a protected consumer. This category includes families who use relatively low amounts of power. The good news for protected consumers is that they enjoy lower electricity rates, helping to keep their bills affordable. On average, you can expect to pay between PKR 24 to 27 per unit, which makes it easier to manage the cost of electricity per unit without the fear of high electricity bills.
These are usually low-income or small households.
- 0–50 units: ~Rs. 3.95 per unit
- 51–100 units: ~Rs. 7.74 per unit
- 101–200 units: ~Rs. 10.06 per unit
Unprotected Consumers (Using more than 200 units/month)
But what if you use more electricity or run a business? Unfortunately, unprotected consumers face significantly higher electricity rates. For those who exceed the typical household consumption, or for businesses with heavy electricity use, rates can rise sharply, reaching as high as PKR 35 or more per unit. This sharp increase in rates can put a significant strain on budgets, especially when energy consumption is high.
Once your usage exceeds 200 units, you lose protected status and pay higher rates:
- 1–100 units: ~Rs. 23.59 per unit
- 101–200 units: ~Rs. 30.10 per unit
- 201–300 units: ~Rs. 34.26 per unit
- 301–400 units: ~Rs. 39–41 per unit
- 401–500 units: ~Rs. 41–42 per unit
- 501–600 units: ~Rs. 42–43 per unit
- 601–700 units: ~Rs. 43–44 per unit
- Above 700 units: ~Rs. 48–49 per unit
Note: These rates may vary slightly depending on your electricity provider (like LESCO, KE, etc.)
Why Rates Increase After 200 Units
- If you use more than 200 units in a month, you lose the subsidy and enter the unprotected category.
- Even if it happens just once, you’ll be billed as unprotected for the next 6 months.
- Taxes, fuel charges, and adjustments also increase the total bill amount.
1 unit electricity cost
1 unit of electricity = 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh)
That means if you use a 1,000-watt (1 kW) appliance for one hour, you will consume 1 unit.
How Much Electricity Do Common Appliances Use?
Here’s an estimate of how much electricity everyday items consume in a month:
| Appliance | Power Rating | Daily Use | Monthly Units (kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED Bulb (10W) | 0.01 kW | 5 hrs | 1.5 units |
| Fan (75W) | 0.075 kW | 8 hrs | 18 units |
| Fridge (Avg. 100W) | 0.1 kW | 12 hrs | 36 units |
| LED TV (150W) | 0.15 kW | 4 hrs | 18 units |
| AC (1.5 Ton) | 1.2 kW | 8 hrs | 288 units |
| Washing Machine | 0.5 kW | 1 hr | 15 units |
| Electric Kettle | 1.5 kW | 12 mins | 9 units |
The air conditioner is usually the biggest contributor to high electricity bills.
Example: Monthly Bill for 400 Units (Unprotected)
Here’s a rough calculation of a household using 400 units:
- First 100 units @ Rs. 23.59 = Rs. 2,359
- Next 100 units @ Rs. 30.10 = Rs. 3,010
- Next 100 units @ Rs. 34.26 = Rs. 3,426
- Next 100 units @ Rs. 39.15 = Rs. 3,915
- Subtotal = Rs. 12,710
- Add Taxes & Fuel Adjustments (~40%) = Rs. 5,080
- Estimated Total Bill = Rs. 17,800
Tips to Reduce Electricity Bills
While the costs may seem overwhelming, there are ways to reduce your electricity expenses. Being mindful of your energy use, opting for energy-efficient appliances, and exploring government programs designed to protect consumers can all make a big difference. Staying informed about these rates and understanding how you can adjust your consumption will not only help you save money but also empower you to take control of your energy bills.
By understanding the protected vs. unprotected consumer rates and adopting smarter habits, you can make sure that your monthly electricity bill doesn’t shock you at the end of the month. It’s time to take action and make your energy usage work for you!
- Keep usage below 200 units to stay in the protected category
- Use energy-efficient appliances (with star ratings)
- Set AC temperature at 26°C and limit usage
- Turn off lights and appliances when not in use
- Avoid usage during peak hours (6:30 PM to 10:30 PM) if you have Time-of-Use meter
- Unplug unused devices – many draw power even when off
- Clean filters in AC and fridge regularly to improve efficiency
- Install solar panels to cut long-term costs
Final Summary / Conclusion
- If you use less than 200 units/month, your rates are as low as Rs. 3.95–10.06 per unit.
- But if you go over 200 units, the rate can go up to Rs. 49 per unit.
- Most average homes with AC and multiple appliances easily go above 300 units.
- You can save thousands by using efficient devices and keeping your usage in check.
