ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has raised concerns over the Gujranwala Electric Power Company’s (Gepco) ambitious Rs100 billion five-year investment plan, citing potential financial burdens on consumers and doubts about its feasibility.
The investment plan, spanning FY2025-26 to FY2029-30, was discussed during a public hearing chaired by the Nepra chairman. The hearing comes as the government moves to privatize three major power distribution companies — Gepco, Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco) — by year-end.
Nepra criticized Gepco’s financial stability, highlighting rising transmission and distribution losses and weak recovery rates in FY2023-24. The regulator questioned the necessity of such a significant investment given declining electricity demand and flagged delays in previously approved projects, which cast doubt on Gepco’s execution capabilities.
“Consumers deserve tangible benefits, not additional financial strain,” Nepra emphasized, directing Gepco to revise its strategy and prioritize operational efficiency and financial discipline.
The scrutiny underscores growing regulatory oversight as the privatization of power distribution companies gains momentum.
Story by Israr Khan
