Pakistan has initiated discussions on the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contracts Market (CTBCM), a new system that auctions 800 megawatts of power, enabling industries to purchase electricity at lower prices. The move is part of big changes in the power sector.
CTBCM lets businesses buy power directly from sellers. This cuts costs and makes trade fair. It opens the market to more players. The goal is to help factories and boost exports.
Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari spoke at an ISMO workshop on Friday, September 19, 2025. He emphasised that the Competitive and Transparent Bilateral Capacity Market (CTBCM) is grounded in global best practices, stating, “This is not a test. It’s a smart reform.” Leghari declared 2025-26 the “Year of Service to Consumers” and assured participants of government support for the initiative.
Pakistan has launched the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) to establish a transparent electricity market after decades of delay.
⚡ Auctions for 800MW wheeling demand expected by Sept-end
⚡ ISMO to operate market and determine hourly marginal prices
⚡… pic.twitter.com/6ugFWGyOEh
— Adeel Afzal (@AdeelAfzal06) September 20, 2025The event had Q&A sessions and panel talks. Experts from regulators, power firms, and buyers joined. They discussed market rules, wheeling, and renewable energy. ISMO explained the registration and auction steps.
CTBCM fixes old problems in the power supply. It stops waste and lowers bills. Businesses get clean, cheap energy. This makes Pakistan stronger in trade. Pakistan’s CTBCM launch is a big step for energy reform. It cuts costs and opens markets. Watch for more on this key change.
