Minister Highlights Key Reforms in the Power Sector

 Federal Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, while addressing an event in Islamabad, announced that planning is underway to provide surplus electricity at discounted energy costs in the future. This surplus electricity will be supplied to industries to promote industrial growth and create new employment opportunities across Pakistan. He emphasized that surplus electricity would be made available on a competitive basis to maximize benefits for the economy and the industrial sector.

 

The Minister also discussed the recently introduced National Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, which aims to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles across the country. He stated that electricity tariffs for EV charging stations have been significantly reduced to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for the public. This step aligns with the government’s vision of promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing environmental impact.

 

Minister Leghari highlighted several other reforms in the energy sector, including efforts to reduce electricity tariffs, eliminate circular debt, and address inefficiencies in the current pricing system, which he described as unsustainable.

 

Talking about IPPs he said that agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) are being revised to ensure transparency and sustainability, and similar revisions will be made with government-owned IPPs in the next phase.

 

He highlighted that privatization of electricity distribution companies is also underway, and efforts are being made to reduce the tax burden on electricity consumers.

 

Discussing coal-based power plants operated by Chinese companies, the Minister said these plants would transition from imported coal to locally mined coal from the Thar region. This shift will reduce import costs while utilizing domestic resources effectively, supporting the local economy and promoting energy self-reliance.

 

In his concluding remarks, Minister Leghari reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that surplus electricity benefits industries, fostering economic growth, and advancing Pakistan’s energy sector through sustainable and innovative reforms.