The federal government has asserted that there is no electricity loadshedding being carried out across the country due to a generation shortfall, clarifying that the power outages many citizens are experiencing are instead the result of targeted load management in areas with high losses on corresponding feeders. This statement was made by Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar during a session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, as the government faces mounting criticism over widespread power cuts and exorbitant electricity bills.
According to Tarar, distribution companies (Discos) are executing load management strategies that focus on areas with higher electricity losses, which are often associated with power theft or inefficient infrastructure. Feeders that report up to 20% losses are exempted from loadshedding, which suggests that areas experiencing power cuts are those where losses exceed this threshold.
The minister’s remarks come in the wake of growing public discontent and protests across the country, particularly during the summer months when prolonged power outages and soaring temperatures created a perfect storm of frustration. The situation has put immense pressure on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government, which has been grappling with challenges in the power sector since coming to power in February of this year.
The government’s handling of the independent power producers (IPPs) has also drawn significant scrutiny. Critics have called for a review of agreements with IPPs, arguing that the current arrangements contribute to the country’s status as having some of the highest electricity tariffs in the region. Despite these challenges, Energy Minister Awais Leghari has hinted at forthcoming positive developments concerning IPPs, although details remain scant.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns about loadshedding, the government is also taking steps to curb electricity theft, which is a significant contributor to the losses that drive load management decisions. Tarar announced that in the first phase of a new initiative, smart meters will be installed on transformers. These meters are intended to provide more accurate data on electricity consumption and losses, helping to identify and reduce theft.
Beyond addressing short-term issues, the government is also focusing on long-term energy strategies. Tarar highlighted the efforts of the Private Power and Infrastructure Board in promoting and developing alternative and renewable energy technologies. These efforts are in line with the government’s vision of diversifying the country’s energy generation sources, reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, and moving towards a more sustainable energy future.
Currently, 58 alternative and renewable energy projects are operational, collectively producing 3,837 megawatts of electricity. Of this, wind energy projects contribute 1,845 megawatts, reflecting the government’s commitment to expanding the renewable energy sector.
Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik also addressed the assembly, expressing concerns about the depletion of indigenous gas reserves. To address this issue, the government is awarding new blocks for oil and gas exploration while continuing to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet the country’s growing energy needs.
Despite the government’s assurances and efforts, the public remains anxious about the ongoing power crisis. The combination of high electricity tariffs, persistent loadshedding, and the broader economic challenges facing the country means that the government will need to deliver on its promises of reform and relief quickly if it hopes to regain public confidence. The energy sector remains a critical area of focus, with both immediate and long-term solutions required to stabilize the situation and ensure reliable electricity for all citizens.
