Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to accelerate the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the country and finalize the privatization of loss-making power generation companies (GENCOs). He also ordered that the auction process be broadcast live on media to ensure transparency.
The directives were issued during a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review the ongoing power sector reforms. The meeting was attended by several federal ministers, advisors, and senior officials, including the National Power Task Force Coordinator and other top energy stakeholders. PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of uninterrupted power supply to industries and fast implementation of smart energy systems.
The meeting was informed that the first phase of GENCOs’ auction has been completed, generating Rs 9.5 billion in revenue. Preparations for the second and third phases are in full swing. Negotiations with 36 independent power producers (IPPs) have resulted in a projected national savings of Rs 30.69 trillion. To ensure uninterrupted supply, major industries are now being directly linked to transmission lines.
Regarding the promotion of EVs, officials revealed that an online portal for EV charging station applications is active, with 120 applications received and 48 granted interim registration documents. The regularization of existing stations has also been completed, showing significant progress in this green mobility initiative.
Further updates included the creation of the Power Planning and Monitoring Company (PPMC) and the restructuring of distribution companies for improved efficiency. The dissolution of NTDC and formation of Energy Infrastructure Development Company and National Grid Company were also briefed. Plans for energy-saving measures like solar-powered tube wells, smart meters, energy-efficient fans, and green building practices are underway, with banks set to offer easy loans to encourage adoption by middle-income households.
PM Shehbaz reiterated that public relief and industrial energy needs remain top priorities, stressing the importance of speed, transparency, and innovation in the power sector overhaul.