The Cabinet Committee on Energy has approved the high-level design of Pakistan’s Integrated Energy Plan 2027-2060.
The committee approved the design during a meeting on August 18. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting in Islamabad.
The Power Division presented the High Level Design Report for the long-term energy plan. The proposed strategy aims to improve Pakistan’s energy sector.
The plan will involve federal and provincial governments. Other relevant stakeholders will also take part in the planning process.
Focus on Affordable Electricity
A key goal is to make electricity more affordable for consumers. The plan will focus on both industrial and domestic users.
The government also wants to improve energy security. It aims to strengthen the country’s economic competitiveness through better energy planning.
The proposed strategy will support low-carbon energy and electricity generation. It will also encourage environmentally friendly and climate-adaptive energy sources.
These measures are intended to support Pakistan’s long-term energy needs. They could also help address challenges across the broader energy sector.
Changes to National Electricity Plan
The committee also approved proposed amendments to the National Electricity Plan 2023-2027.
The Power Division presented the proposed changes during the meeting. They cover several important areas of the electricity sector.
The amendments include integrated energy planning and increasing electricity generation. They also cover renewable power supplies for remote regions.
Cross-border electricity trade is another area included in the proposed amendments. The expansion of the national transmission system is also part of the plan.
Other areas include tariff design and electricity conservation. System and market operations are also addressed.
The amendments further cover risk identification and administrative matters. They also seek to strengthen local fuel and technology capabilities.
Research and development are included in the proposals. Digitization of the energy sector is another focus.
More Consultation Required
The Cabinet Committee directed further consultations before the amendments move forward.
The Power Division has been asked to consult the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Consultation with the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority is also required.
These discussions will help address relevant concerns before further action. The committee did not provide a final timeline for completing the consultations.
Circular Debt Reports Presented
The meeting also reviewed the financial challenges facing Pakistan’s energy sector.
The Power Division presented a report on power sector circular debt. The report covered the fiscal year 2025-26.
The Petroleum Division also presented a report on gas sector circular debt. It covered the same financial year.
However, the Prime Minister’s Office did not disclose the total circular debt figures. It also did not provide detailed financial information.
The government has not yet released the complete implementation framework for the new energy plan. Details about financing and execution also remain unavailable.
Long-Term Energy Strategy
The Integrated Energy Plan will cover the period from 2027 to 2060. It is intended to provide a long-term direction for Pakistan’s energy sector.
The government wants to improve energy security while supporting economic growth. Affordable electricity remains an important part of the proposed strategy.
The plan also places greater emphasis on renewable and low-carbon energy. Better transmission and market systems are included among its objectives.
Further consultations and planning will determine how the proposals are implemented. The government is expected to develop more details as the process continues.
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The long-term strategy could shape Pakistan’s approach to electricity generation and energy management. It also aims to support consumers and improve the overall competitiveness of the economy.
