Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed authorities to speed up reforms in Pakistan’s power sector. He also called for a long-term energy strategy focused on renewable sources. The goal is to meet future electricity demand efficiently.
A high-level meeting on power sector reforms was chaired by Shahbaz Sharif. During the session, he stressed the importance of clean energy development. He said Pakistan must increase electricity generation from hydropower, solar, and biogas.
The prime minister noted that renewable energy will help reduce production costs. He added that it will also support economic stability and growth. Shahbaz Sharif instructed officials to reduce reliance on imported fuel.
He also ordered strict action against electricity theft. The prime minister said no compromise will be made on illegal practices. He directed authorities to take action against companies violating the Economic Merit Order.
A major focus of the meeting was the installation of smart meters. Shahbaz Sharif instructed officials to fast-track deployment in high-loss areas. This step is aimed at reducing electricity losses and improving monitoring systems.
He further emphasized the need for a competitive electricity market. Officials were told to accelerate reforms to improve transparency and efficiency. The government aims to modernize the entire power sector structure.
During the briefing, officials informed the meeting about improvements in performance. Transmission losses have reduced from 18.3 percent in June 2024 to 15.3 percent in March 2026. This shows progress in controlling system inefficiencies.
Officials also reported better recovery of electricity bills. The recovery rate increased from 90 percent to 96.46 percent. This reflects stronger financial management in the sector.
The meeting was informed that three power distribution companies are being prepared for private sector management. The bidding process is expected to be completed by November this year.
Smart meters have already been installed on 2,500 high-loss feeders. This move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce theft and technical losses.
Shahbaz Sharif also directed faster implementation of supplying 400 megawatts of electricity to the private sector. This will be done under the wheeling system in the first phase.
In other related news also read PM Shahbaz to launch K-3 nuclear power plant today.
Overall, the government under Shahbaz Sharif is focusing on renewable energy, improved governance, and stronger enforcement. These steps aim to make Pakistan’s power sector more efficient and sustainable.
