Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the government to further lower electricity tariffs for consumers and expedite the execution of Pakistan’s future energy generation strategy.
During a meeting held in Islamabad on Friday to review the country’s power sector plans, the prime minister emphasized the importance of focusing on low-cost electricity generation for future projects. He underlined the need to maximize the use of domestic resources in power production to achieve long-term sustainability.
The meeting included a detailed briefing on the progress of various hydropower projects across the nation. PM Shehbaz highlighted the advantages of hydropower, describing it as an affordable and environmentally friendly energy source that could significantly benefit consumers by lowering electricity costs.
The prime minister also proposed transitioning existing power generation systems to solar energy. He noted that solar energy is a globally recognized, sustainable, and cost-effective solution. Given Pakistanβs significant potential for solar energy, he called for the optimal utilization of this resource to reduce dependency on expensive alternatives.
In addition, the meeting reviewed outdated and inefficient power plants that consume excessive fuel while delivering minimal output. PM Shehbaz directed the immediate decommissioning of such plants to save on fuel imports and reduce electricity production costs.
He also instructed strict measures against officials hindering reforms in the energy sector. Discussions included the modernisation of the power transmission network, with the PM stressing the need to bring the system up to international standards. He advocated for a network capable of selecting and distributing electricity based on cost-efficiency, ensuring consumers benefit from the lowest possible rates.
The premier urged the timely completion of all ongoing reforms and projects in the power sector. He emphasized swift implementation of the measures necessary to address the current challenges in energy production and distribution.
Key topics covered in the meeting included updates on power demand and supply, advancements in the transmission system, the closure of plants reliant on imported fuel, and the status of new and ongoing projects.
