ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari said on Wednesday the country was strengthening safeguards for its energy sector amid regional tensions and economic uncertainty, as he highlighted that clean sources now account for about 55 percent of the national energy mix during a meeting.
Leghari’s remarks came as he met a Canadian delegation led by High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan, with both sides discussing energy cooperation and potential investment, as Pakistan seeks to stabilize its power sector and attract foreign capital while managing risks linked to volatile global energy markets.
“The government is taking steps to protect the power sector from unforeseen challenges,” the minister said, according to a statement shared by the power division, adding that “hydropower will be further expanded to provide affordable and sustainable electricity.”
Leghari said Pakistan had achieved around 55 percent of its energy mix from clean sources last year, reflecting a policy shift toward sustainability and reduced reliance on imported fuels.
He said the government was reviewing plans to convert imported coal-fired power plants to local coal, with environmental studies near completion, and would proceed if found feasible.
He also highlighted efforts to deploy large-scale battery storage connected to the power grid to store surplus electricity for use during peak demand, while encouraging private sector investment and developing systems for the safe disposal of solar panel waste.
The minister said a time-of-use tariff would be introduced to promote more efficient electricity use, allowing industrial consumers to pay lower rates during off-peak hours.
Leghari said reforms in the power sector were being guided by a least-cost and sustainable approach after the government moved away from what he described as unnecessary projects.
The Canadian High Commissioner expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Pakistan, including potential investment by Canadian firms in Pakistan’s energy sector.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions at the technical level, as Islamabad seeks to attract investment in electricity markets and transmission infrastructure.
