Energy Minister Awais Leghari outlined a distinctive strategy regarding load shedding, asserting that enduring two hours of power outages daily could save Pakistan 50 billion rupees.
Speaking at an event in Islamabad, Leghari addressed the challenges of providing affordable electricity in a region with notably high energy costs. He noted that while economically disadvantaged consumers benefit from reduced rates, the financial burden disproportionately affects other consumer segments.
Leghari detailed that the high cost of electricity is prompting industrial shutdowns, compelling the government to subsidize energy prices for these sectors. He advocated for a structured load-shedding plan, emphasizing that measures and initiatives like reducing fan wattage are vital for energy conservation. Furthermore, the government’s efforts to commission new power plants aim to curtail the need for future load shedding.
Highlighting the economic pressures, Leghari remarked that the electricity cost per unit surged from 10 to 44 rupees, primarily due to the depreciation of the national currency. He also touched upon the government’s discreet collaborations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), suggesting that these partnerships could lead to significant developments in the energy sector.
Despite previous information leaks from his ministry, Leghari expressed optimism about forthcoming announcements regarding IPPs and the overall progress of Pakistan’s energy landscape.
