Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting Tuesday to review reforms in the power sector and the privatization of distribution companies.
These measures aim to stabilize a struggling energy grid by reducing financial losses and diversifying the national energy mix. The government is prioritizing the shift toward sustainable sources to reduce reliance on expensive imports.
During the session, officials discussed the privatization of power distribution companies, known as DISCOs. The move is intended to improve operational efficiency and reduce the systemic leakages that have long plagued the sector. Sharif said the government will focus on advancing these reforms to ensure a more reliable power supply for the population.
Addressing the issue of illegal connections and electricity theft, the Prime Minister warned that the state would take a hard line against offenders. "There will be no leniency for power theft," Sharif said.
Beyond privatization and enforcement, the meeting focused on the long-term transition to green energy. The administration plans to move away from traditional fuels to meet growing demand while lowering costs.
"We will formulate a comprehensive renewable energy strategy to meet future energy needs," Sharif said.
This strategy is expected to integrate more solar and wind projects into the national grid. By combining strict enforcement against theft with a modernization of the distribution network, the government hopes to create a sustainable framework for energy production, and delivery.
“There will be no leniency for power theft.”
The focus on privatizing DISCOs and cracking down on power theft indicates a shift toward a market-driven energy model intended to reduce the fiscal burden on the state. By coupling these austerity measures with a renewable energy strategy, Pakistan is attempting to solve immediate liquidity crises in the power sector while hedging against global fossil fuel price volatility.
