ISLAMABAD: Federal Energy Minister Awais Leghari has said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is currently not allowing Pakistan to offer cheaper electricity to consumers during specific hours, although the government is negotiating with the lender to secure approval for the relief measure.
Speaking at the Battery Storage Flexibility 2026 conference in Islamabad, Leghari said offering lower electricity rates at selected times could significantly increase power consumption across the country.
He said Pakistan’s first comprehensive energy plan is expected to be unveiled in April next year, with a focus on storing surplus solar power generated during the day for use at night.
The minister said clean energy currently accounts for around 55% of Pakistan’s total power generation, with the government targeting a 90% share by 2035.
Leghari stressed that achieving the target would not be possible without large-scale battery storage. The government, he added, is therefore focusing on developing local battery manufacturing and engineering capabilities rather than relying heavily on imported batteries.
