ISLAMABAD: Federal Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has praised NEPRA’s recent ruling on the Use of System Charge for open access users within Pakistan’s electricity market framework under the CTBCM regime. He described the decision as a historic step forward in the reform and modernization of the country’s power sector.
Leghari stated that this regulatory milestone is crucial for enabling open access, which will soon lead to the launch of Pakistan’s first CTBCM auction, marking a significant advancement in the energy sector. He emphasized that establishing a competitive electricity market is a vital part of the broader reform agenda, moving Pakistan away from a traditional single-buyer system toward a more competitive and consumer-friendly market environment.
The minister highlighted that, for the first time, industrial consumers will have the ability to directly procure electricity from various suppliers through a competitive process, rather than relying solely on distribution companies. This shift aims to foster a more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective power supply system.
Leghari also pointed out that the benefits of a competitive market are not limited to industrial users but will also extend to ordinary consumers. Increased competition is expected to promote more efficient generation, better utilization of existing power plants, and lower electricity prices. Additionally, it could incentivize the growth of renewable energy, battery storage, and other flexible energy sources, reducing reliance on imported fuels and improving energy security.
He praised NEPRA’s role in facilitating this transition and noted that the decision on the Use of System Charge provides the essential regulatory foundation for open access, reflecting coordinated efforts among the Ministry of Energy, NEPRA, and other stakeholders.
Leghari concluded by stating that the upcoming CTBCM auction will not only be a key regulatory achievement but also a transformative moment for Pakistan’s power sector, paving the way for a more competitive, transparent, and sustainable energy future. The Power Division remains dedicated to completing remaining reforms to ensure the successful implementation of this new market structure for the benefit of all Pakistani consumers.
