1 Unit Electricity Price in Pakistan in 1947 to 2025: A Historical Journey of Power Tariffs (October Update)
In October 2025, the average electricity price in Pakistan is around PKR 35–37 per unit, which is the highest ever for home users.
But back in 1947, one unit of electricity cost only around 0.10 PKR (a few paisas).
This long journey from cheap power to today’s high prices shows how Pakistan’s economy, fuel imports, and government policies have changed over the years.
A Quick Look at Electricity Prices Over Time
| Year | Price per Unit (PKR) | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1947 | ~0.10 | Independence; small local power plants only. |
| 1950 | ~0.15 | Limited supply, power mainly in cities. |
| 1960 | ~0.25 | Start of big hydro projects like Warsak Dam. |
| 1970 | ~0.40 | WAPDA expansion, rural electrification begins. |
| 1980 | ~0.70 | Global oil crisis raises generation costs. |
| 1990 | ~1.50 | IPPs introduced, private sector joins in. |
| 2000 | ~3.00 | Sanctions and fuel import dependence increase. |
| 2005 | ~4.50 | Rising demand, more furnace oil use. |
| 2010 | ~8.00 | Circular debt crisis worsens. |
| 2015 | ~12.00 | LNG added to the system, partial reforms. |
| 2018 | ~15.00 | Currency devaluation raises tariffs. |
| 2020 | ~18.00 | COVID-19 impact and subsidy cuts. |
| 2022 | ~22.00 | IMF reforms bring sharp hikes. |
| 2023 | ~32.00 | Inflation and rupee drop increase prices. |
| 2024 | ~35.00 | IMF tariff adjustments continue. |
| 2025 (Oct) | ~37.00 | Prices stable but still very high. |
Why Power Was So Cheap in 1947
When Pakistan became independent, electricity demand was very low — only a few big cities had small power plants.
Fuel was cheaper, the population was smaller, and the government gave more subsidies.
As time passed, population growth, industrial demand, and dependence on imported oil made electricity much more expensive.
October 2025 Update
As of October 2025, the electricity tariff in Pakistan is between PKR 35–37 per unit depending on usage and consumer type.
- The government is still in talks with the IMF about energy subsidies.
- Fuel and oil imports remain a major challenge.
- Experts believe prices will stay high until Pakistan increases its own power generation from solar, wind, and hydropower sources.
Reasons Behind the Price Hike
- Heavy dependence on imported oil and gas
- Currency devaluation and rising fuel prices
- Circular debt and inefficiency in distribution companies
- Delay in renewable energy projects
- IMF-mandated tariff adjustments
Final Words
From just 0.10 PKR per unit in 1947 to around 37 PKR in 2025, Pakistan’s electricity prices tell the story of economic struggle, rising energy costs, and limited local production.
Electricity, once an affordable need, has now become a serious challenge for households and industries across the country.
Disclaimer
The prices mentioned here are estimated averages, based on available data, inflation trends, and market updates.
Actual rates may vary depending on region, slab, and consumer category.
