The Power Division has expressed its support for providing free electricity to employees of government-owned power sector entities, stating that it is a part of their employment terms and conditions, alongside other benefits such as medical care and housing.
According to a report by a national daily, 441.5 million units of electricity are distributed annually at no cost to approximately 200,000 employees across public and corporate sector organizations. Of this allocation, 308.2 million units are provided to current employees, while retired employees receive 133.2 million units.
The largest group of beneficiaries includes 149,000 employees of distribution companies (Discos), who receive free electricity as part of their service package. This benefit is considered a standard component of their employment agreements.
In a written response to the National Assembly, the Power Division defended the practice, noting that similar benefits are offered in other public and corporate sector organizations, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), Pakistan Railways, and Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL).
The provision of free electricity to employees has sparked debate, with critics questioning its financial impact on the power sector. However, the Power Division maintains that the benefit is a long-standing part of employment contracts and is consistent with practices in other state-owned enterprises.
