PM directs authorities to fast-track privatisation of power sector

Shehbaz says Daanish University will focus on technology and modern sciences

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the relevant authorities to expedite the privatisation process of power distribution companies (DISCOS) and generation companies (GENCOS).

Chairing a meeting regarding power sector in the federal capital, the prime minister emphasised that the privatisation of the energy system, leading to the establishment of a competitive electricity market, was the sustainable solution to the country’s energy issues.

During the meeting, the premier was told that measures were being taken to privatise three distribution companies IESCO, FESCO and GEPCO and in this regard Expression of Interest (EoIs) will be published soon.

The premier instructed that relevant development projects be complted on priority to further improve the power distribution system of the country.

To align the electricity system with modern requirements, the prime minister directed to initiate work on a Battery Energy Storage System through public-private partnerships and involvement of the private sector.

During the meeting, the prime minister was briefed on the progress of power sector roadmap, power generation, distribution, privatisation of DISCOS and GENCOS, and other reforms being taken in the power sector.

The prime minister was told that PC-I of the 500 KV Ghazi Barotha-Faisalabad transmission line was at the approval stage.

Besides, the technical feasibility to shift the imported power plants to Thar Coal has been completed whereas work on the railway line to transport Thar coal to the power plants is also in progress.

The prime minister was also briefed on operationalisation of a competitive electricity market.

The concept clearance proposal for the Battery Energy Storage System project has been approved, and the feasibility study is underway, the prime minister was informed.

The briefing added that as a result of continuous efforts, line losses had decreased compared to last year.

Daanish University

Separately, the prime minister stressed that Daanish University would concentrate on promoting technology and modern scientific disciplines.

He was chairing the Daanish University Board of Trustees meeting in the federal capital.

The meeting focused on the university’s development, future plans, and the establishment of an inclusive and world-class institution aimed at promoting modern education and technological advancements, a PM’s Office statement read.

The prime minister further directed that the university’s architecture should be designed in a simple yet dignified manner, reflecting its commitment to excellence.

He welcomed the chairman and members of the Board, extending his best wishes for their efforts.