The biggest economic crisis the country has ever experienced is a fuel shortfall, and imports of furnace oil and LNG are suffering as foreign exchange reserves dwindle. More than 12 thermal power plants have been shut down, while hydel power plants, notably Neelum Jhelum, are producing very little electricity.
Pakistan’s power generating capacity is insufficient to fulfil the country’s energy demands, resulting in a significant supply-demand imbalance. According to projections, Pakistan’s power consumption is predicted to reach 49,000 MW by 2025, despite the country’s present capacity of roughly 34,000 MW. This chasm is extended further by deteriorating infrastructure, which causes large transmission and distribution losses. Additionally, Pakistan heavily relies on thermal power plants, which run on imported oil, resulting in high fuel costs and significant strain on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The government has been trying to diversify the energy mix by promoting renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy, but progress has been slow.
Overall, the electricity shortage problem in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted solution that involves significant investment in the energy sector, improvement in the power generation and distribution system, and promotion of renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on thermal power plants.
According to estimates, an additional 1,000 megawatts of power are needed annually during the summer due to the expanding population and requirements, whereas the demand for electricity in 2017 was 26,000 megawatts. The State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to restrict the import of completed products and raw materials to reduce the current account deficit also harmed domestic power-generating resources, and anomalous prices were seen for both generators and UPS as backup power sources. The government presently consumes the majority of the electricity. Air conditioners appear to be operating excessively in the majority of offices, while in certain locations massive plants are sitting idle. The administration is now receiving suggestions, such as taking away free power from the privileged class and extending the workweek to four days, to prevent the potential escalation of load shedding in the upcoming days.
In Pakistan, there is a serious issue with the lack of electricity. It is distinguished by frequent blackouts, load shedding, and power outages. The energy sector’s lack of investment, an ineffective power generating and distribution infrastructure, and an increasing demand for electricity due to population increase and industrial development are the main causes of the electricity crisis.
