GEPCO Protected vs Unprotected Consumer Slabs (200 Units Rule)
Understand how NEPRA's 200 units threshold impacts your monthly GEPCO electricity bill, how the 6-month rolling rule works, and how to stay in the protected low-cost tariff category.
What is NEPRA's Protected Consumer Tariff Rule?
National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) divides residential electricity consumers in Pakistan into two primary billing categories: Protected Category and Unprotected Category. The primary objective of the Protected category is to subsidize low-income households that consume less electricity.
Definition of Protected Consumer
A GEPCO consumer is categorized as Protected if their monthly unit consumption has not exceeded 200 units (kWh) in any single month during the last 6 consecutive months (rolling window).
Definition of Unprotected Consumer
A GEPCO consumer becomes Unprotected if their consumption exceeds 200 units in any single month over the preceding 6 months, or if their average monthly consumption is consistently above 200 units.
Protected vs Unprotected Tariff Rate Comparison Table (2026)
| Unit Consumption Slab | Protected Slab Rate (PKR/kWh) | Unprotected Slab Rate (PKR/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 50 Units | Rs. 7.50 / unit | Rs. 16.48 / unit |
| 51 - 100 Units | Rs. 10.20 / unit | Rs. 16.48 / unit |
| 101 - 200 Units | Rs. 12.80 / unit | Rs. 22.95 / unit |
| 201 - 300 Units | N/A (Crosses Threshold) | Rs. 29.15 / unit |
| 301 - 400 Units | N/A | Rs. 35.80 / unit |
| 401 - 500 Units | N/A | Rs. 38.86 / unit |
5 Practical Tips to Stay in the GEPCO Protected Category
- Monitor Monthly Meter Reading Date: Keep track of your reading date by checking your latest bill using our GEPCO Online Bill Checker.
- Avoid High-Power Appliances During Peak Hours: Turn off air conditioners, water pumps, and electric heaters between peak hours. Check current peak hours timings on our GEPCO Peak Hours Page.
- Use Inverter Appliances: Inverter ACs and refrigerators consume up to 40% less electricity compared to non-inverter models.
- Calculate Consumed Units Weekly: Check your digital meter display regularly to ensure your total monthly reading stays below 195 units.