Federal Minister for Power Division Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has clarified that the government fully supports solarization, but in a manner that is fair to all consumers and does not place an undue burden on non-solar users.
He rejected claims that the government does not support solarization, terming them false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the ministry on Saturday, he explained that while solar power helps replace fossil fuel-based generation, its contribution is limited to daylight hours. During nighttime, stable and dispatchable sources of power generation remain essential to maintain grid stability and meet dynamically changing load conditions. He noted that high penetration of unmanaged rooftop solar can create grid stability challenges, including steep evening ramp requirements, which increase reliance on flexible gas-based generation.
The minister further said that in light of recent LNG supply disruptions—following force majeure declared by QatarEnergy amid the US–Israel–Iran conflict—some level of demand management has become unavoidable. He added that any curtailment in sectors such as fertiliser would be carefully managed due to its importance for food security, while restrictions on commercial or high-end domestic consumers would be temporary, targeted and based on system requirements rather than policy preference.
He emphasised that suggestions to completely shift to coal-based generation and shut down gas plants do not reflect practical power system operations. Indigenous coal plants are already prioritised due to their relatively lower fuel cost; however, gas-based plants play a crucial role in providing flexibility, especially during peak demand and rapid transitions, such as when solar generation drops at sunset.
“A balanced dispatch strategy—where coal provides base load and gas ensures flexibility—is essential for reliable grid operations,” he said.
Addressing concerns regarding higher gas prices for captive power, the minister stated that recent trends do not support claims that industries are moving away from the grid. He noted that following the imposition of the captive power levy, grid demand has increased significantly. The government’s surplus power package, offering electricity at around Rs23 per unit, has helped retain industrial consumers on the grid.
Providing data, he said January 2026 recorded the highest-ever electricity demand with a 12.1 per cent year-on-year increase, while February also saw robust growth of around 11 per cent. Over the first two months, industrial consumers collectively saved approximately Rs12 billion under the surplus power package.
“This is not a time for point-scoring, but to recognise that Pakistan is managing the current global energy crisis in a measured, strategic and effective manner,” he remarked. He added that the country’s largely indigenous and diversified power generation mix has helped mitigate the potential impact of global disruptions on electricity supply.
The minister also highlighted ongoing reforms, including privatisation of state-owned enterprises and the introduction of third-party access to the electricity network under a liberalised market framework, noting that significant progress has already been achieved.
Reiterating the government’s stance, he said consumers are encouraged to adopt solar and other clean energy solutions in a fair and balanced manner. He added that the government remains focused on ensuring energy security, maintaining system stability and supporting economic continuity amid global energy uncertainties.
