ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Solar Association (PSA) has urged the government to introduce a uniform national electric vehicle (EV) charging pricing framework, including a notified maximum consumer rate, amid reported variations in charging prices ranging from Rs100 to Rs150 per unit at certain charging stations, particularly on highways and motorways.
In a communication addressed to federal secretaries of relevant ministries, PSA appreciated the government’s initiative to promote electric mobility through concessional electricity pricing for EV charging stations, reportedly fixed at around Rs39.70 per kWh, alongside the charging infrastructure framework administered by the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA).
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However, the association expressed concern that consumers were reportedly being charged substantially higher rates at certain charging stations, raising questions about whether the benefit of concessional electricity pricing was being adequately passed on to EV users.
PSA maintained that high and unpredictable charging costs could undermine the financial incentives provided by the government to encourage adoption of electric vehicles and weaken the effectiveness of its electric mobility initiatives.
The association noted that electricity purchase costs constituted only one component of the final EV charging price, as operators also had to recover investments in charging equipment, electrical infrastructure, premises, maintenance and other operational expenses while earning a reasonable return.
Nevertheless, it argued that these legitimate costs should be assessed through a transparent framework capable of protecting consumers against excessive margins and arbitrary pricing.
PSA has proposed that the government introduce a unified national EV charging pricing mechanism, incorporating a notified maximum consumer rate for comparable charging services.
Under the proposed framework, charging station operators should be required to prominently disclose the complete charging price before commencement of charging. The association has also recommended itemised receipts showing electricity delivered, applicable charging rates, taxes and any separately authorised charges.
It further proposed establishment of a designated consumer complaint mechanism and periodic compliance reviews to ensure adherence to the notified pricing framework.
The association has called for interministerial consultations involving Power Division, Ministry of Industries and Production, Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), NEECA, relevant distribution companies and industry representatives to develop and implement the proposed mechanism.
PSA stated that it would be willing to provide technical inputs, utilisation benchmarks and financial modelling to assist the government in establishing a sustainable pricing framework.
The association emphasised that government support for EV charging infrastructure should translate into affordable charging facilities for consumers while ensuring reasonable returns for investors and protection against unjustified charges.
The communication has been forwarded to the relevant federal ministries for consideration and necessary action.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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