Battery Energy Storage Systems Key to Pakistan’s Energy Transition, Says Power Minister
Islamabad: Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has said that Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s energy transition by improving grid stability, enabling greater integration of renewable energy, and supporting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
Addressing the Battery Energy Storage Systems Conference organized by the Pakistan Solar Association in Lahore, the minister said battery storage has become an essential component of modern power systems as Pakistan’s electricity sector undergoes a major transformation driven by the rapid expansion of rooftop solar installations.
He noted that the increasing use of rooftop solar systems has significantly altered electricity demand patterns, reducing daytime demand while creating higher electricity consumption during evening peak hours. According to the minister, this shift has created operational challenges for the national grid, as surplus solar power generated during the day must be effectively managed to meet demand after sunset.
Leghari said Battery Energy Storage Systems provide an effective solution by storing excess solar energy during daylight hours and supplying it back to the grid during peak demand periods. This, he said, enhances grid flexibility, reduces dependence on costly peak power plants, and improves the integration of renewable energy into the national electricity network.
The minister announced that the government has declared battery energy storage a strategic priority and established a Federal Steering Committee on BESS to formulate a coordinated national policy and accelerate regulatory and implementation measures.
He added that battery storage technology has significant potential to strengthen isolated grids in Gilgit-Baltistan, improve electricity reliability in Gwadar, facilitate renewable energy integration in remote areas, and enhance the resilience of Pakistan’s transmission network.
Emphasizing safety and quality standards, Leghari said only internationally certified battery systems meeting International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards should be imported, manufactured, or assembled in Pakistan. He added that the Ministry of Energy has directed all relevant stakeholders to adopt IEC standards and permit only IEC-certified battery modules to ensure consumer safety and system reliability.
The minister also revealed that the government is promoting local manufacturing, with the Ministry of Industries and Production preparing a dedicated Battery Energy Storage Systems Manufacturing Policy. He said the policy aims to attract domestic and foreign investment, facilitate technology transfer, strengthen local supply chains, create skilled employment opportunities, and ultimately position Pakistan as a regional hub for battery manufacturing and innovation.
Leghari further noted that the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles will place additional pressure on the country’s electricity distribution network unless supported by battery storage solutions.
He said the government’s vision is to develop an integrated energy ecosystem where rooftop solar systems, battery storage, smart grids, and electric vehicles work together to improve energy efficiency, reduce pressure on the grid, and maximize the use of renewable energy.
Concluding his address, the minister called for close cooperation among policymakers, regulators, utilities, manufacturers, investors, academic institutions, and development partners, expressing confidence that with the right policies, strong public-private partnerships, and a commitment to local manufacturing, Pakistan can emerge as both a major user and a regional manufacturing center for battery energy storage technologies.
