The cost of RLNG-based electricity generation reached an all-time high in July 2026. The cost rose to Rs. 47.4 per unit during the month.
The figures were reported by Topline Securities, based on data from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority. The increase reflects higher costs for imported liquefied natural gas.
Generation costs had remained much lower earlier this year. In April, the cost was below Rs. 14 per unit.
The latest figure represents a sharp 242 percent increase from April. The rise has added pressure to the cost of electricity generation in Pakistan.
The cost of RLNG-based electricity had generally remained between Rs. 20 and Rs. 26 per unit. This range was observed for much of the period since 2022.
The sharp increase in 2026 was linked to disruptions in contracted LNG supplies. Pakistan had to rely more heavily on spot LNG cargoes.
Pakistan LNG Limited procured five spot cargoes for delivery in July. These purchases were made after disruptions affected contracted supplies from Qatar.
QatarEnergy declared force majeure on its LNG supply obligations in March. The move came amid regional security disruptions affecting LNG supplies.
The disruption was later extended through August. Pakistan consequently faced the need to arrange replacement cargoes from international markets.
Spot LNG cargoes can carry significantly higher prices than contracted supplies. This increased the fuel cost used for electricity generation.
The higher LNG costs were reflected in the latest generation figures. As a result, RLNG-based electricity became significantly more expensive in July.
NEPRA data showed the sharp movement in generation costs over recent months. The increase represents a major change from the previous cost range.
The record figure also highlights Pakistan’s exposure to international LNG prices. Changes in global energy markets can directly affect local generation costs.
Pakistan depends on LNG for part of its energy requirements. Disruptions in contracted supplies can therefore create additional costs for the country.
The reliance on spot purchases increased after the Qatar supply disruption. Replacement cargoes were required to maintain sufficient gas supplies.
The situation also demonstrates the importance of stable LNG supply arrangements. Any prolonged disruption can increase fuel procurement costs.
The July increase was not linked to a reported rise in electricity consumption. Instead, higher fuel prices were a major factor behind the cost increase.
The development could have wider implications for Pakistan’s power sector. Higher generation costs can affect the overall cost of electricity supply.
The record July figure comes as Pakistan continues managing its energy requirements. The country remains dependent on imported fuel for part of its power generation.
The sharp increase in RLNG-based electricity generation costs shows the impact of supply disruptions. It also highlights the risks associated with purchasing fuel from spot markets.
Further changes will depend on international LNG prices and supply conditions. The availability of contracted supplies will also remain important.
In other related news also read OGRA Increases RLNG Tariffs For SNGPL And SSGCL Consumers
For now, July 2026 marks a record level for RLNG generation costs. The Rs. 47.4 per-unit figure represents a significant increase from earlier months.
