ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has received a much-needed liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipment, providing timely relief to its strained energy sector amid ongoing global supply challenges.
After nearly two months without a delivery, the LNG carrier Seapeak Magellan arrived at the Pakistan GasPort terminal on Thursday and began supplying re-gasified LNG (RLNG) into the national grid, according to a report on Friday.
The vessel carried approximately 140,000 cubic metres of LNG and docked at the terminal operated by Pakistan GasPort Consortium Limited. The shipment, arranged by TotalEnergies at a rate of $18.40 per mmbtu, is the first cargo to reach Pakistan since an earlier US-origin delivery weeks ago.
RLNG injection into the system started cautiously at 50 MMcf and continued at that level until late afternoon. Following updated requirements, supply was increased to 250 MMcf by early evening and later adjusted to 260 MMcf, depending on available reserves. Around 45 MMcf has been directed to K-Electric, while the remainder is being supplied through the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited network.
Energy officials noted that the cargo’s arrival comes at a crucial time, helping stabilize the power sector. The Power Division reported zero load management as of April 30, crediting the situation partly to the prior diversion of 168 MMcf of domestic gas to electricity generation. With RLNG now entering the system, further improvement is expected as power demand rises with warmer weather.
Despite the relief, concerns about future supply persist. Authorities are currently working to secure another LNG shipment expected between May 10 and 12, though it remains undecided whether this will be arranged through competitive bidding or via Azerbaijan’s state oil company, SOCAR.
At the same time, efforts are ongoing to resolve delays affecting four LNG cargoes from Qatar that are stuck due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The matter has been taken up at the highest levels, including the National Crisis Management Committee.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has also held discussions with the Iranian ambassador, possibly to explore options for ensuring safe transit.
In a positive development, the recent successful passage of a diesel shipment through the Strait has improved expectations that the delayed LNG cargoes could soon arrive, potentially strengthening Pakistan’s energy outlook in the weeks ahead.
