How Much Does 1 Unit of Electricity Cost in Pakistan?
Electricity bills in Pakistan are based on a slab system, meaning the more you use, the more you pay per unit. Rates increase as your monthly usage goes up.
Protected Users – Up to 200 Units
If you use 200 units or less in a month, you’re considered a protected user, usually low-usage households. These users enjoy lower rates:
- 0–50 units: Around Rs. 3.95 per unit
- 51–100 units: Around Rs. 7.74 per unit
- 101–200 units: Around Rs. 10.06 per unit
Unprotected Users – Above 200 Units
If your monthly usage goes above 200 units, your subsidy is removed. Even if it happens once, you’ll be charged at higher rates for the next 6 months:
- 1–100 units: ~Rs. 23.59
- 101–200 units: ~Rs. 30.10
- 201–300 units: ~Rs. 34.26
- 301–400 units: ~Rs. 39–41
- 401–500 units: ~Rs. 41–42
- 501–600 units: ~Rs. 42–43
- 601–700 units: ~Rs. 43–44
- Above 700 units: ~Rs. 48–49
💡 These prices may vary slightly depending on your electricity company (LESCO, K-Electric, etc.).
Why Do Rates Go Up After 200 Units?
- When you cross 200 units, you’re no longer subsidized.
- Additional costs like fuel charges, taxes, and adjustments also increase your bill.
What is 1 Unit of Electricity?
One unit = 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Example: Using a 1000-watt appliance for one hour = 1 unit
Common Appliance Usage (Monthly)
| Appliance | Daily Use | Monthly Units |
|---|---|---|
| LED Bulb (10W) | 5 hrs | 1.5 units |
| Fan (75W) | 8 hrs | 18 units |
| Fridge (100W) | 12 hrs | 36 units |
| LED TV (150W) | 4 hrs | 18 units |
| AC (1.5 Ton) | 8 hrs | 288 units |
| Washing Machine | 1 hr | 15 units |
| Electric Kettle | 12 mins | 9 units |
➡️ AC is usually the biggest reason for high electricity bills.
Example: Monthly Bill for 400 Units (Unprotected)
- First 100 units @ Rs. 23.59 = Rs. 2,359
- Next 100 @ Rs. 30.10 = Rs. 3,010
- Next 100 @ Rs. 34.26 = Rs. 3,426
- Last 100 @ Rs. 39.15 = Rs. 3,915
Subtotal = Rs. 12,710
+ Taxes & Fuel Charges (40%) = Rs. 5,080
Total Estimated Bill = Rs. 17,800
Tips to Save Electricity & Cut Bills
- Stay below 200 units to keep lower rates
- Use energy-saving appliances (star-rated)
- Set AC at 26°C and limit hours
- Turn off lights & fans when not needed
- Avoid usage during peak hours (6:30 PM – 10:30 PM)
- Unplug unused electronics
- Clean AC/fridge filters regularly
- Install solar panels for long-term savings
Final Summary
- Below 200 units = Rs. 3.95–10.06 per unit
- Above 200 units = Up to Rs. 49 per unit
- Most homes with AC and electronics cross 300 units easily
- Saving energy means saving money — use wisely!
