ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Power Division, Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, has provided a detailed clarification regarding the government’s stance on solar energy adoption in Pakistan. Emphasizing the administration’s full support for solarization, he stressed that this support must be implemented in a way that is equitable for all electricity consumers. The minister highlighted the importance of avoiding any undue financial or operational burden on those who do not have solar installations.
In a comprehensive statement released by the Power Ministry on Saturday, Leghari firmly dismissed recent allegations suggesting that the government is not backing solar energy initiatives. He described these claims as inaccurate and misleading, underscoring the government’s commitment to renewable energy as a vital component of Pakistan’s energy mix. The minister elaborated that while solar power plays a significant role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, its contribution is inherently limited to daylight hours, which presents unique challenges for continuous power supply.
Leghari pointed out that during nighttime, when solar generation ceases, the country must depend on stable and dispatchable power sources to maintain grid reliability and meet fluctuating electricity demand. He warned that an excessive and unmanaged increase in rooftop solar installations could disrupt grid stability, particularly by causing steep ramp-up requirements in the evening hours. This situation, he explained, increases dependence on flexible gas-fired power plants, which are crucial for balancing the grid during these transitional periods.
The minister also addressed the recent disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, which have been impacted by a force majeure declared by QatarEnergy amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. These supply constraints have necessitated some degree of demand management across the power sector. Leghari assured that any curtailment measures, especially in critical sectors like fertilizer production, would be handled with utmost care given their direct link to national food security. He further clarified that any restrictions imposed on commercial or high-end residential consumers would be temporary, precisely targeted, and driven by system requirements rather than any policy bias.
Turning to the debate over fuel sources, the minister refuted suggestions advocating a complete shift to coal-based power generation while shutting down gas plants. He explained that such proposals overlook the practical realities of power system operations. Indigenous coal-fired plants are already given priority due to their relatively lower fuel costs, but gas-based plants remain indispensable for providing operational flexibility. This flexibility is especially vital during peak demand periods and rapid transitions, such as the drop in solar power output at sunset. Leghari emphasized that a well-balanced dispatch strategy, where coal plants supply the base load and gas plants offer the necessary flexibility, is critical for ensuring a reliable and stable electricity grid.
Addressing concerns about rising gas prices for captive power generation, the minister noted that recent data contradict claims that industries are increasingly disconnecting from the national grid. In fact, following the introduction of the captive power levy, overall grid demand has seen a significant increase. He credited the government’s surplus power package, which provides electricity at a competitive rate of approximately Rs23 per unit, for helping retain industrial consumers on the grid. Highlighting recent trends, Leghari shared that January 2026 witnessed the highest-ever electricity demand with a 12.1 percent year-on-year rise, while February also recorded robust growth of around 11 percent. Over the first two months of the year, industrial consumers collectively saved nearly Rs12 billion under this surplus power scheme.
Leghari concluded by urging all stakeholders to move beyond political point-scoring and recognize the government’s efforts in managing the global energy crisis with a measured, strategic, and effective approach. He pointed out that Pakistan’s largely indigenous and diversified energy generation portfolio has played a pivotal role in cushioning the country from the full impact of international energy market disruptions. The minister also highlighted ongoing reforms within the power sector, including the privatization of state-owned enterprises and the introduction of third-party access to the electricity network under a liberalized market framework. Significant progress has already been made in these areas, he noted.
Reiterating the government’s position, Leghari encouraged consumers to adopt solar and other clean energy solutions in a manner that is fair and balanced. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring energy security, maintaining system stability, and supporting uninterrupted economic activity amid ongoing global energy uncertainties.
