Power generation rises 8.8% in December 2025, driven by coal, RLNG plants

Pakistan's power generation increased by 8.8% in December 2025 compared to the same month last year, reaching 8,487 GWh. This marked the second-highest December output on record and the highest since December 2021, driven largely by higher contributions from coal- and RLNG-based plants.

According to the latest power generation data, the total generation exceeded the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority’s (Nepra) reference level of 7,965 GWh, reflecting stronger grid demand and a higher share of thermal and nuclear power.

During the first half of the fiscal year, power generation totalled 67,356 GWh, a 1.1% year-on-year increase, indicating stable electricity demand despite ongoing efficiency and conservation measures.

Hydropower generation saw a sharp decline month-on-month, dropping from 3,153 GWh in November to 1,534 GWh in December. This reduced hydropower’s share in the energy mix to 18.1%, partially offset by a rise in coal-based and nuclear generation.

Generation from imported coal surged by more than five times to 860 GWh, while local coal-based generation increased 51% year-on-year to 1,187 GWh. Nuclear power remained the largest contributor, generating 2,126 GWh, or 25.1% of total output. 

RLNG-based generation fell 9% year-on-year to 1,464 GWh, while gas-based generation remained stable at 951 GWh. Wind and solar power together accounted for just under 3% of total generation due to limited seasonal availability.

The average fuel cost of power generation rose to Rs9.16 per unit, up 1% year-on-year, largely due to a higher thermal share following the decline in hydropower output. Despite the higher fuel costs, a favorable generation mix resulted in a positive fuel cost adjustment (FCA) of Rs0.48 per unit, ending three consecutive months of negative FCA.