CCOP clears structure for privatisation of three power Discos, plans 51%–100% stake sale

The Cabinet Committee on Privatisation (CCOP) on Friday approved the transaction structure for the privatisation of three power distribution companies, advancing the government’s plan to reform the electricity distribution sector through private sector participation.

The decision covers Islamabad Electric Supply Company, Gujranwala Electric Power Company, and Faisalabad Electric Power Company, which are set to be offered for outright sale ranging from 51% to 100% equity along with management control, subject to approval by the federal cabinet.

The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and reviewed key aspects of the broader power sector privatisation programme, according to an official statement issued on Friday.

Officials said the restructuring is aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening financial sustainability, and enhancing service delivery in the power distribution system through private sector involvement.

The committee’s approval sets the framework for the transaction structure, after which the process will move forward subject to final cabinet endorsement.

The meeting was attended by the Federal Minister for Power, Adviser on Privatisation, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, and senior officials including the secretaries of cabinet, privatisation commission, privatisation division, and power division.

Also present were the chairman of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority, chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, and other senior representatives from relevant ministries and institutions.