Islamabad: The government will stop purchasing electricity after March 2025, as it has authorized the creation of an Independent Electricity Market, according to recent announcements in the National Assembly. This move is expected to allow consumers greater flexibility in choosing their electricity suppliers.
According to a statement by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari addressed the assembly during the Question Hour, highlighting the benefits of the new market structure. He indicated that contracts with over 28 Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have been reviewed, yielding a financial benefit of 1,457 billion rupees to the national exchequer.
Minister Leghari also noted significant reductions in electricity tariffs, with industrial rates reduced by eleven rupees per unit since June of last year, and a four-rupee reduction for other sectors. Additionally, the cost of electricity for electric vehicle charging stations has been decreased to thirty-nine rupees per unit from seventy-one rupees.
Efforts to combat power theft and improve recoveries have shown positive results, and the implementation of advanced metering infrastructure is underway in all distribution companies. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to alleviate the financial burden on consumers.
In other business, Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar announced the reconstitution of the ICT Senior Citizens Council, which will soon convene to discuss relevant rules. Meanwhile, Parliamentary Secretary on Foreign Affairs Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal reaffirmed Pakistan and China’s commitment to advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), focusing on industrialization and technology transfer.
The assembly also addressed health concerns, with only two cases of human metapneumovirus reported in Islamabad, and assured of the government’s vigilance in monitoring the situation.
Finally, the National Assembly adopted a motion expressing gratitude to President Asif Ali Zardari for his past address, acknowledging his role in promoting democratic continuity and political tolerance. The assembly is scheduled to reconvene tomorrow at 2 p.m.
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