ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for an expedited privatization process for the country’s electricity distribution and generation companies.
Presiding over a review meeting on power sector reforms in Islamabad today, he highlighted that fostering a competitive electricity market through privatization represents the only sustainable path to addressing Pakistan’s energy challenges.
He urged that development projects aimed at enhancing the electricity transmission system be prioritized for timely completion. Additionally, he instructed that work on the Battery Energy Storage System should commence under public-private partnerships, encouraging active involvement from the private sector to modernize the power infrastructure.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister was updated on advancements in electricity generation, transmission, the privatization of DISCOs and GENCOs, and other ongoing reforms within the power sector.
It was reported that preparations for the privatization of three distribution companies—IESCO, FESCO, and GEPCO are underway, with Expressions of Interest expected to be published soon.
The progress of the 500 KV Ghazi Barotha-Faisalabad transmission line was also discussed, and it was noted that its PC-1 is currently awaiting approval to bolster the transmission network. The technical feasibility of converting power plants from imported coal to Thar coal has been completed, while construction on a railway line to facilitate Thar coal transportation is in progress.
The meeting further examined steps taken toward operationalizing a competitive electricity market. Officials shared that efforts have led to a reduction in line losses compared to the previous year. Additionally, the concept clearance for the Battery Energy Storage System project has been approved, with its feasibility study already underway.
