PM Shehbaz reviews power sector reforms during a high level meeting held on Monday to assess progress on the government’s energy roadmap. The prime minister focused on clear targets, faster execution, and long term stability for Pakistan’s power sector. PM Shehbaz reviews power sector reforms as part of a broader push to fix deep rooted energy problems.
The prime minister directed authorities to speed up the privatisation of electricity distribution companies and generation companies. He stressed that privatisation and a competitive electricity market remain the only workable path to resolve Pakistan’s energy crisis. He urged officials to move without delay and remove procedural hurdles that slow progress.
PM Shehbaz also placed strong emphasis on improving electricity transmission. He instructed departments to complete all ongoing transmission projects on a priority basis. He highlighted that weak transmission continues to cause losses and limits efficiency across the system.
During the meeting, the prime minister ordered immediate steps to launch battery energy storage systems through public private partnerships. He encouraged strong private sector participation and said modern energy solutions must support future demand. He linked battery storage to grid stability and better integration of renewable energy.
Officials briefed the meeting on privatisation plans for three major distribution companies. Authorities have started work on IESCO, FESCO, and GEPCO. They plan to issue expressions of interest soon. Officials also shared updates on the 500kV Ghazi Barotha to Faisalabad transmission line. The PC I for this project remains in the approval stage and aims to strengthen the national grid.
The briefing also covered fuel transition plans. Officials confirmed completion of the technical feasibility to shift imported coal based power plants to Thar coal. Work on the railway line to support coal transportation continues at pace.
Officials informed the prime minister about progress on the competitive power market. They reported a reduction in line losses compared to last year due to consistent reforms. Authorities have approved concept clearance for the battery energy storage project, while a feasibility study continues.
Federal ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Ahsan Khan Cheema, Sardar Awais Ahmed Leghari, Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior officials attended the meeting.
