Amid a critical government-led restructuring of the country’s power transmission system, veteran energy expert Altaf Hussain has taken charge as the Managing Director of the newly established National Grid Company of Pakistan Limited (NGC).
According to National Transmission and Despatch Company’s (NTDC) information today, his appointment is pivotal as NTDC is unbundled to enhance sectoral transparency and performance.
Mr. Hussain possesses a distinguished international career spanning over three decades in power transmission and distribution. His journey began in 1987 with the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), followed by a 27-year tenure in Canada”s power sector, culminating in his role as Director of Asset Strategy and Planning at BC Hydro, a prominent Canadian electric utility where he steered major initiatives in grid resilience and energy transition.
The reform program has dismantled the previous NTDC structure, creating NGC as the national transmission service provider. It operates alongside two other newly formed bodies: the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) and the Energy Infrastructure Development and Management Company (EIDMC).
In an inaugural online address to the company”s senior management, Mr. Hussain outlined his vision to transform NGC into a modern, progressive organization. He highlighted the importance of adopting new technologies, fostering clear communication, and implementing robust mentoring programs to cultivate internal talent.
The new Managing Director expressed his commitment to establishing an innovation-led culture that incorporates global best practices in transmission system management. He conveyed confidence that his teams would meet crucial deadlines to support Pakistan”s energy requirements and economic growth.
In his new capacity, Mr. Hussain will spearhead NGC”s initiatives for transmission network development, operational stability, and reliability enhancement. His role necessitates close collaboration with ISMO on market operations and with EIDMC on infrastructure projects, leveraging his extensive international expertise to guide Pakistan”s grid modernization efforts.