Leghari says LNG shortage leads to prolonged loadshedding

Federal Power Minister Awais Leghari has sought apology from the nation over prolonged loadshedding in the country and claimed that situation erupted due to war in the Middle East, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel. 

Addressing a press conference at his office in Islamabad, Leghari said that there was 4000 MW power short fall. He claimed that power outage situation in the country was comparatively stable than other neighboring countries. 

He said that if there was 500MW shortfall in energy, there will be loadshedding for one hour. The hydropower generation faces 1530 MW shortfall. The gas plants can generate 6,000 MW more electricity. He said that furnace oil plants were being fully utilized as gas cannot generate electricity during peak hours. 

Leghari claimed that the government was not getting gas due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that LNG suspension has led to fuel shortage. The hydropower generation has decreased as there is a shortfall of 1600 MW in hydropower. 

Power Minister said there was a shortage of more than 3,000 MW due to the lack of LNG. In April, electricity demand ranged from 9,000 to 20,000 MW. He said when electricity demand exceeds 16,500 MW, load shedding increases. The loadshedding will end with increased hydropower generation. 

He said no LNG has been imported from abroad since April 1. Load shedding is taking place equally in urban and rural areas. 1400 MW of electricity is generated from furnace oil. The reason for the load shedding in the country is temporary. 

Power Minister said a few days ago, a two and a half hour load shedding was announced to curb electricity prices. He said at that time, the electric company was taking a record 2,000 MW of electricity from the national grid. A shortage of 500 MW leads to an hour of load shedding.