Wait till 2060 for cheaper electricity as PM Shehbaz okays 34-year energy plan
The Cabinet Committee on Energy, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved the high-level design of the Integrated Energy Plan 2027-2060. The plan aims to improve energy security, strengthen the economy and reduce the cost of electricity for consumers.
Long-term energy strategy takes shape
The proposed plan will bring together federal and provincial governments and other key stakeholders. It is designed to create a more coordinated energy system and improve Pakistan’s overall economic competitiveness.
The government also wants to increase the use of low-carbon energy and cleaner power sources. The plan will focus on providing affordable electricity to both industrial and domestic consumers while considering climate-related challenges.
Major changes proposed for power sector
The committee also approved proposed amendments to the National Electricity Plan 2023-2027. These changes include increasing power generation, expanding transmission networks and providing renewable electricity to remote areas.
The proposals also cover cross-border electricity trade, tariff design and power conservation. Other areas include market operations, risk management, local fuel and technology development, research and development and greater use of digital systems.
More consultations and debt reports
The committee directed officials to hold further discussions with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority before moving ahead with the proposed amendments. This means some parts of the plan still require further review and consultation.
The meeting also reviewed reports on circular debt in the power and gas sectors for fiscal year 2025-26. However, the Prime Minister’s Office did not disclose the amount of circular debt or provide details of the financial and implementation framework for the long-term plan.
The 2027-2060 plan could become an important step if it successfully lowers electricity costs while improving the reliability of the power system. Its focus on renewable energy, transmission and local technology could also reduce some long-term pressures on the sector.
However, the plan is still at the design stage and several details remain unclear. Its success will depend on effective coordination between governments, regulators and energy institutions, as well as a clear financial plan.
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