Energy Minister Defends Revenue-Based Load-Shedding

The ongoing debate between the federal government and the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) in Pakistan regarding revenue-based load-shedding has sparked controversy and raised questions about its legality and necessity.

The Energy Minister has been advocating for the implementation of revenue-based load-shedding as a crucial measure to reduce losses and costs in the power sector. He warns of potential financial implications if this strategy is not enforced.

On the other hand, Nepra has taken a firm stance against revenue-based load-shedding, declaring it illegal and insisting that all decisions must comply with existing laws. Recently, Nepra penalized distribution companies for carrying out load-shedding based on revenue considerations, emphasizing the protection of honest consumers.

Power Minister Leghari has come forward to defend the strategy, attributing power cuts to areas with high losses and poor bill recovery rates. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in the power sector and has announced plans to publish daily data on demand, supply, and load-shedding to keep the public informed.

Recognizing the electricity shortfall and identifying regions with significant losses, Leghari has proposed a targeted approach to minimize financial losses and eventually eliminate load-shedding as losses decrease. He also mentioned collaborative efforts with provincial governments to tackle power theft and technical faults affecting power supply, including engaging law enforcement agencies in addressing power theft issues.

In response to inquiries about solar net metering policies, Leghari confirmed that there are no immediate changes and stressed the importance of consulting stakeholders before making any adjustments in the future.

The debate over revenue-based load-shedding in Pakistan reflects the complexities and challenges faced in the power sector. While the government emphasizes the need for cost-saving measures, regulatory authorities like Nepra prioritize legal compliance and consumer protection. As efforts continue to address power losses, improve transparency, and combat issues like power theft, stakeholders must work together to ensure a reliable and sustainable power supply for all.