One of the most important — and least understood — lines on a residential electricity bill in Pakistan is whether you are a protected or unprotected (non-protected) consumer. The difference can change your bill by thousands of rupees a month.
Who is a protected consumer?
Under the residential (A-1) tariff, a household is treated as protected if it consumed 200 units or less in each of the previous six months. Protected consumers are charged lower rates for the slabs of 1–100 and 101–200 units.
Who is unprotected?
A residential consumer who used more than 200 units in any one of the previous six months is treated as unprotected. Unprotected consumers pay higher slab rates, even if this month's consumption is under 200 units.
Why one month matters so much
Suppose your household uses 180 units every month but crosses to 210 units in one hot month. That single month can move you into the unprotected group for the next six months, during which you pay the higher rate even for your normal 180 units. This is why many families watch their meter closely in summer.
How to check your status
- Look at the 12-month consumption history on your bill. If any of the last six months exceed 200 units, you are likely unprotected.
- Some bills indicate the category directly. If unsure, ask your sub-division.
Tips to stay protected
- Track your meter reading weekly; divide 200 by the number of days in the billing cycle to get a daily target (about 6.5 units per day).
- Run ACs at 26°C, use timers, and avoid running two ACs at once where possible.
- Switch to LEDs and efficient DC/inverter fans.
- Avoid electric water heating and heaters in winter if you are near the limit.
- If the reading period is unusually long, raise it with your DISCO — extra days can push you over 200 units.
Protected status and solar
For solar users, the effect of protected status depends on how your units are calculated under your metering arrangement. Check how import units are billed on your bill and ask your DISCO if unsure.
Important
Slab rates and the rules for protected consumers are set by NEPRA and the federal government and may be revised. Always check the latest tariff notification.