ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has proposed changes to the Consumer Service Manual (CSM) that could introduce higher grid-sharing and infrastructure-related charges for high-rise buildings, industrial consumers and other users requiring dedicated power facilities.

Under the proposed amendments, multi-storey buildings requiring a dedicated transformer with capacity above 500kVA would be subject to grid-sharing charges. The proposal also covers dedicated transformers, 11kV feeders, grid stations and temporary electricity disconnections and reconnections.

For industrial, commercial and bulk-supply consumers, distribution companies could be allowed to provide up to three feeders, with a combined load limit of 15MW at the same premises, subject to technical feasibility and available capacity at the existing grid station.

Consumers with loads exceeding 5MW would be required to pay the full grid-sharing and transmission charges under the proposal. The proposed grid-sharing charge is Rs8.948 million per MW, while land costs would be charged at Rs0.855 million per MW, proportionate to the required load.

For requirements above 15MW, a dedicated grid station and associated transmission line would be required. The proposal also outlines refunds of previously paid grid-sharing, transmission-line and land costs if a consumer is subsequently connected through a dedicated grid station.

Nepra has further proposed dedicated transformers, 11kV feeders and rehabilitation charges for connections of up to 1MW, with similar arrangements for loads above 1MW and up to 2.5MW based on actual rehabilitation costs.

The proposed amendments also address temporary disconnections. Consumers would have to apply for reconnection before the approved disconnection period expires. If they do not apply, the connection would be treated as reconnected, and applicable charges would become payable.

In addition, Nepra has proposed allowing detection bills for up to 12 months in cases involving certain meter-related irregularities and security breaches. For domestic consumers, the proposed detection-bill period would be limited to six months.

Nepra has invited stakeholders to submit written comments on the proposed amendments, with the consultation period ending October 25, 2026.

The proposals are part of changes being considered for the Consumer Service Manual governing electricity connections and related distribution infrastructure.