Nepra takes action to curb load shedding issues

Over the past decade, Pakistan's power sector has made significant strides in overcoming capacity constraints that once plagued the nation, leading to widespread electricity load shedding. While the overall capacity to meet demand has improved, the persistence of load shedding remains a pressing concern.

Recent data reveals that in major cities like Quetta, Peshawar, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and K-Electric, a significant percentage of feeders still experience load shedding. Some areas face daily outages lasting up to 16 hours, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Authorities attribute this ongoing issue to the interpretation of the National Energy Policy 2013 guidelines, which some power distribution companies use to justify commercial-based load shedding. However, the regulator, Nepra, has refuted this claim, emphasizing that load shedding should be solely based on technical grounds.

Nepra's recent actions, including imposing fines on non-compliant companies and transitioning to the 2021 energy policy, underscore the need for stricter adherence to regulations. The regulator's push for more transparent and efficient practices aims to address the root causes of load shedding and improve service delivery to consumers.

While debates continue on the technicalities of smart meter usage and load shedding mechanisms, the overarching goal remains clear: to enhance the efficiency and reliability of Pakistan's power sector. The current reliance on commercial-based load shedding not only hampers consumer satisfaction but also distorts the energy equation, hindering the sector's overall progress.

In conclusion, the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the persistent issue of load shedding in Pakistan's power sector is evident. By prioritizing technical efficiency over commercial convenience, stakeholders can work towards a more reliable and consumer-centric electricity distribution system.