Electric Stove vs Gas Cylinder – Which is Cheaper in Pakistan (2026)?
Yes, electric cooking is approximately 25–30% cheaper than LPG in Pakistan in 2026.
This conclusion is not based on assumptions or marketing claims, it is based on real market prices, verified electricity unit calculations, and the everyday cooking patterns of a middle-class Pakistani household.
Across the country, gas load-shedding, pressure drops, and inconsistent supply have turned cooking into a daily challenge. At the same time, LPG open market rates have reached record highs, forcing families to rethink whether gas is still a practical option. Naturally, many households consider electric stoves but hesitate due to the fear of inflated electricity bills.
Real Cost of LPG Cylinders in 2026
On paper, OGRA still publishes official LPG prices. In reality, most consumers never receive cylinders at those rates. What actually matters is the open market price, which reflects ground reality.
As of December 2025 to January 2026, the real market price of an 11.8kg LPG cylinder ranges between Rs. 3,300 and Rs. 3,800, depending on city, demand, and seasonal shortages.
Average Monthly LPG Usage
A typical family of 5–6 people, cooking three meals daily, consumes:
- 1.5 to 2 LPG cylinders per month
This usage often increases during winter because the burner remains on longer due to low gas pressure.
Monthly LPG Expense
- 1.5 cylinders × Rs. 3,300 = Rs. 4,950
- 2 cylinders × Rs. 3,800 = Rs. 7,600
Result:
Most households now spend between Rs. 5,500 and Rs. 7,500 per month on LPG cooking alone, excluding delivery issues and safety concerns.
Breaking Down the Electricity Units
Electric cooking only seems expensive when unit consumption is misunderstood. Once the math is clear, the cost becomes predictable and manageable.
Stove Power Consumption Explained
Most electric stoves used in Pakistan fall within the 1500W to 2000W range. For cost efficiency, 1500W induction stoves are the most practical choice.
Important Technical Fact (Core Evidence):
1500W running for 1 hour consumes exactly 1.5 electricity units.
Daily & Monthly Electricity Consumption
Assume the stove is used for 2 hours per day:
- Daily Consumption:
1.5 units × 2 hours = 3 units per day - Monthly Consumption:
3 units × 30 days = 90 units per month
Cost Based on NEPRA Slabs (2025/26)
Including NEPRA slabs, Fuel Adjustment Charges (FAC), and taxes, the realistic electricity tariff falls between Rs. 35 and Rs. 50 per unit for middle-tier consumers.
- 90 units × Rs. 40 = Rs. 3,600
- 90 units × Rs. 50 = Rs. 4,500
Result:
Electric cooking costs approximately Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 4,500 per month, which is significantly lower than LPG cylinder expenses.
LPG vs Electric Cooking – Comparison Table
| Factor | LPG Gas Cylinder | Electric Stove (Induction/Infrared) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Rs. 5,500 – Rs. 7,500 | Rs. 3,500 – Rs. 5,000 |
| Fuel Availability | Inconsistent, black market | Grid supply (load-shedding dependent) |
| Safety | Leakage & explosion risk | No open flame, safer for apartments |
| Thermal Efficiency | Reduced in winter | High and consistent (especially induction) |
| Best Use Case | Heavy frying, backup cooking | Daily meals, reheating, tea |
Conclusion from Data:
Electric cooking offers clear monthly savings of Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000 for an average household.
Pros & Cons of Shifting to Electric Cooking
Pros of Shifting to Electric
- Cost Savings: Reduces monthly kitchen fuel expenses by nearly 25–30%.
- Safety: Zero risk of gas leakages, cylinder bursts, or carbon monoxide exposure.
- Kitchen Hygiene: No carbon soot, keeping walls, ceilings, and cookware clean.
- Precision Control: Accurate temperature adjustment improves cooking efficiency and reduces energy waste.
Cons to Consider
- Initial Setup: Requires upfront investment in a quality stove and induction-compatible cookware.
- Power Reliability: Cooking is not possible during outages without solar or high-capacity UPS backup.
Solar Advantage – When Cooking Costs Drop to Zero
This is where electric cooking clearly outperforms gas. Households with even a 1kW to 3kW solar system can run a 1500W induction stove during daytime without consuming grid electricity. In this scenario:
- Electricity units used for cooking = 0
- Monthly cooking cost = Zero PKR
LPG offers no equivalent advantage because its pricing is tied to imports, transport costs, and market manipulation. Solar-powered electric cooking provides long-term insulation from fuel inflation.
FAQs
Is electric cooking safer than gas?
Yes. Electric stoves eliminate open flames and gas-related hazards, making them safer for homes and apartments.
Can traditional meals be cooked on electric stoves?
Yes. Induction handles pots efficiently, while infrared or hot plates work well for flat cookware and bread preparation.
Will electricity consumption increase significantly?
Electric stoves consume power similar to a 1.5-ton air conditioner, but for limited hours. When used strategically, the increase remains controlled and predictable.
Final Verdict
Our analysis clearly shows that electric cooking is the more economical and stable choice in Pakistan for 2026.
The most practical strategy is a hybrid kitchen. Use an electric induction stove for daily cooking and keep a small LPG cylinder only as a backup for specific tasks.
Share your local price in the comments and help other households compare real costs.
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