ISLAMABAD: The Power Division has announced a new strategy aimed at managing electricity demand and prices during peak hours, following a statement from a spokesperson detailing significant developments in the sector. The strategy includes a planned suspension of electricity supply for 2.25 hours daily during peak periods and the utilization of local gas to avoid significant price hikes.

According to Ministry of Energy, consistent efforts have resulted in a 71 paisa per unit reduction in average tariff from July to February, providing relief amounting to Rs 46 billion. Achieved through structural reforms and efficiency improvements, this reduction comes amid rising fuel costs. The strategy prioritizes low-cost generation sources and better system operations, enhancing overall system performance and offering sustainable relief to consumers.

The statement highlighted stable power generation despite global challenges, with the system capable of meeting demand. However, peak hours from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am pose challenges due to reduced hydel generation. To mitigate reliance on costly fuels and prevent tariff spikes, the government plans a daily 2.25-hour power suspension during these times.

The Prime Minister is directly supervising the situation, with directives to avoid sharp tariff increases. The provision of 80 MMCFD of local gas to power plants has helped prevent an 80 paisa per unit increase, reducing the need for additional load management. The limited peak-time load management aims to prevent a Rs 3 per unit increase, with restricted furnace oil use possibly leading to a Rs 1.5 per unit rise instead of Rs 5 to Rs 6.

Distribution companies have been instructed to provide feeder-wise outage schedules to ensure consumer awareness, with no unscheduled outages permitted. The government emphasizes that this is part of the “Peak Relief Strategy” and not load shedding, focusing on controlling potential price increases.

Efforts to minimize the impact of international conditions on the public continue, with the government committed to keeping electricity prices in check. Coordinated actions, including timely commercial market closures, are encouraged to further reduce demand and limit potential cost increases.