Nepra Fines K-Electric Rs. 25 Million Over 2023 Power Blackout

⚡ Nepra Fines K-Electric Rs. 25 Million Over 2023 Blackout

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has fined K-Electric Rs. 25 million for its poor handling of the nationwide power blackout in January 2023.

According to Nepra, the company failed to manage internal faults and could not provide a satisfactory explanation for the major outage.

---

🔍 Inquiry Findings

After a detailed investigation, Nepra found that K-Electric’s internal systems were at fault. The report revealed that the company’s Black Start system — designed to restart electricity generation after a total power failure — did not work properly during the crisis.

This system failure, along with repeated technical faults and tripping, exposed serious weaknesses in K-Electric’s safety and recovery setup.

---

⚙️ Fine and Deadline

Nepra declared K-Electric’s explanation “unsatisfactory and unacceptable.”

The power regulator has ordered the company to pay the Rs. 25 million fine within 15 days.

---

🕯️ Pakistan’s 2023 Blackout

The January 23, 2023, power breakdown was one of the worst blackouts in Pakistan’s history. It left millions without electricity for several hours, disrupting businesses, homes, and essential services across the country.

---

💬 K-Electric’s Response

A K-Electric spokesperson expressed surprise over the fine, saying:

> “The penalty for the January 2023 breakdown, which was caused by the NTDC system, is surprising. We are reviewing Nepra’s detailed decision and will decide our next steps soon.”

The company maintains that the main disturbance began in the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC) system, not in K-Electric’s network.

---

🌐 Final Words

Nepra’s action highlights the growing accountability in Pakistan’s power sector. While K-Electric plans to challenge the decision, many believe this move could encourage better management and stronger safety systems in the future.