Govt committed to transparent power sector reforms, says Awais Leghari at LUMS workshop

A comprehensive awareness workshop on Pakistan’s power sector was jointly organized by the LUMS Energy Institute and the Power Division of Pakistan to enhance journalists’ understanding of the country’s energy challenges, reforms, and future policy direction.

The workshop brought together journalists, media professionals, and media students, who were given detailed briefings on key aspects of the power sector, including electricity generation, transmission, distribution systems, tariffs, subsidies, and the issue of circular debt.

Federal Minister for Energy Awais Leghari stressed the need for responsible and informed journalism in the energy sector, saying that balanced and accurate reporting was essential for public awareness and policy understanding.

He said many misconceptions regarding the power sector emerge due to incomplete or inaccurate information and emphasized that the government was committed to providing transparent and factual information to the public.

Awais Leghari announced that Pakistan would not install any new Independent Power Producers (IPPs) based on imported fuels in the future, signaling a shift towards more sustainable and locally viable energy solutions.

The minister stated that the ongoing review of agreements with Independent Power Producers was expected to save approximately Rs3.5 trillion over the next 10 to 15 years. He described the review process as part of broader structural reforms aimed at reducing financial pressure on consumers and improving efficiency in the power sector.

Addressing concerns regarding renewable energy, the energy minister clarified that the government’s proposed solar policy would not slow down the pace of solar energy development in the country. He reiterated the government’s support for clean energy initiatives and announced continued encouragement for investment in battery energy storage systems to strengthen energy reliability and grid stability.

Additional Secretary of the Power Division Mahfouz Bhatti highlighted the importance of informed journalism in shaping public understanding of complex energy issues. He said factual reporting could help bridge the communication gap between policymakers and the public.

Meanwhile, Dr. Fayyaz Ahmed Chaudhry emphasized that demand-side management and energy sector reforms were indispensable for ensuring long-term sustainability and efficiency in Pakistan’s power system.

Advisor to the Power Division Syed Faizan Ali delivered a presentation outlining the government’s vision for the future of the power sector, including modernization, digitalization, renewable integration, and financial reforms.

Participants at the workshop engaged in discussions on the challenges facing Pakistan’s energy sector and the role of media in presenting accurate information to the public. Organizers said the initiative aimed to improve understanding between policymakers, experts, and journalists covering the energy beat.