Alternative Energy Revolution Underway, Inclusion of Bhasha Dam in Power System Vital: Energy Minister

Islamabad: Pakistan’s Energy Minister Owais Leghari stated that the country is undergoing a revolution in alternative energy, and the inclusion of the Bhasha Dam in the national power system will be crucial.
Speaking at a workshop focused on reforms in the energy sector, Leghari said that significant reforms have been implemented over the past year. He noted that the government has made efforts to provide relief to consumers, including a 30% reduction in the industrial power tariff.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable pricing, Leghari remarked that the government aims to ensure long-term reductions in power tariffs. He emphasized the rapid progress in alternative energy, particularly solar energy, which he described as “astonishing” due to its growing production capacity.
The minister revealed that the government has been reviewing agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and conducting research and analysis in the energy sector over the past year. He admitted that past projections in the energy sector were not realistic and added that energy demand surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leghari announced that the government is working to separate itself from direct electricity procurement in the future and is focused on improving the power transmission system. “We are ensuring that consumers do not face the consequences of poor planning,” he said.
He also pointed out the lack of technology to monitor the pressure on transformers and feeders, and expressed concern over the environmental impact of coal- and gas-powered plants. However, he assured that there would be sufficient electricity available from the grid for the next three years and emphasized that electricity should be efficiently utilized by consumers.