Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the immediate shutdown of inefficient power plants and stressed the need to lower electricity tariffs for consumers. The directive came during a review meeting on power sector reforms.
According to a statement issued by the PM’s Office, the prime minister was briefed on new power projects, ongoing initiatives, and the progress of reforms within the electricity sector. He instructed authorities to complete all power sector reform measures within the stipulated timelines and to act against officials hindering these efforts.
“These outdated power plants should be shut down immediately,” the premier said, adding that their closure would save valuable foreign exchange on fuel imports and reduce electricity costs for consumers.
The meeting also reviewed the current electricity demand, generation capacity, and transmission system reforms. Stressing the importance of sustainable power generation, the prime minister said, “Only low-cost electricity projects should be prioritized in the future, with a focus on utilizing local resources for power generation.”
He was also updated on the status of ongoing hydropower projects. Highlighting the importance of hydropower, PM Shehbaz remarked, “Hydropower projects provide low-cost, eco-friendly electricity to consumers.”
The premier emphasized the need to expand the use of renewable energy. He directed that Pakistan’s current electricity capacity should transition toward solar energy, noting, “Solar energy is an eco-friendly and low-cost source of electricity. Pakistan is fortunate to have vast solar energy potential.”
The meeting concluded with a focus on expediting reforms in the power transmission system. Federal Ministers Ahad Khan Cheema, Sardar Awais Khan Leghari, Dr. Musadik Malik, Minister of State Ali Pervaiz Malik, and senior officials were present.
