The federal government has started work on a plan to provide cheaper electricity to telecom operators by extending industrial electricity tariffs to the sector, following its decision to grant the telecom industry industrial status.
The initiative aims to reduce operating costs for telecom companies while improving network reliability and supporting the country’s digital infrastructure.
Task Force Holds First Meeting
A joint task force held its first consultative meeting to discuss the implementation of industrial electricity tariffs for telecom operators.
The meeting focused on developing a practical mechanism for extending industrial power rates to the telecom sector and preparing a comprehensive implementation framework.
Multi-Agency Committee Formed
According to sources, the task force has been established under the policy directive for the IMT Spectrum Auction.
It includes representatives from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), the Power Division, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), electricity distribution companies, and telecom operators.
Telecom Companies Seek Lower Power Costs
During the meeting, telecom operators argued that commercial electricity tariffs have placed significant financial pressure on the industry.
They maintained that the telecom sector contributes substantial tax revenues to the national economy and should receive industrial electricity tariffs similar to other key industries.
Operators also stressed that telecommunications have become an essential public service, making affordable electricity critical for maintaining uninterrupted connectivity.
Focus on Network Reliability
The task force also reviewed proposals aimed at ensuring uninterrupted telecom services during extended power outages.
Among the measures discussed were dedicated power feeders, smart grid solutions, and other infrastructure improvements designed to strengthen network resilience across Pakistan.
Recommendations Expected Soon
According to sources, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication will prepare the task force’s Terms of Reference (ToRs).
Participants agreed to hold the next meeting within the next ten days, where further recommendations on industrial electricity tariffs and implementation mechanisms will be finalized.
The proposed policy is expected to lower operational costs for telecom companies while supporting improved digital services and stronger communications infrastructure across the country.
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