PM Shehbaz Orders Renewable Energy Push and Power Sector

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to develop a long-term strategy to meet Pakistan’s future energy needs through renewable sources, while accelerating reforms in the power sector.

According to Beyond Time News, the prime minister chaired a review meeting in Islamabad focused on ongoing energy sector improvements and efficiency measures.

Shift Toward Renewable Energy

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan must reduce reliance on imported fuel and expand cleaner energy production.

He stressed the importance of increasing electricity generation from hydropower, solar energy, and biogas. According to him, this shift will lower production costs and support economic growth.

Crackdown on Power Theft and Inefficiency

The prime minister took a strict stance on electricity theft and inefficiencies in distribution companies.

He ordered firm action against officials involved in violations of the Economic Merit Order and called for immediate departmental accountability.

He also directed authorities to speed up the installation of smart meters in areas with high electricity losses.

Push for Competitive Electricity Market

Shehbaz Sharif urged the government to fast-track reforms aimed at creating a more competitive electricity market.

He also ordered acceleration of the “wheeling system,” under which 400 megawatts of electricity will be supplied to the private sector in the first phase.

Read more:PM Shehbaz Approves Digital Tax Litigation System

Improvement in Power Sector Performance

Officials briefed the meeting on improvements in key performance indicators of the power sector.

They reported that overall losses from theft, non-recovery, and inefficiency have decreased compared to last year.

Key updates included:

• Transmission losses reduced from 18.3% (June 2024) to 15.3% (March 2026)
• Electricity bill recovery improved from 90% to 96.46%
• Smart meters installed on 2,500 high-loss feeders

Private Sector Participation

The meeting was informed that the process of involving the private sector in three distribution companies is underway. The bidding process is expected to be completed by November.

Conclusion

The government says ongoing reforms aim to make the power sector more efficient, reduce financial losses, and shift Pakistan toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.