KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has sanctioned a wide-ranging plan to bolster energy conservation and efficiency measures across the province. The plan includes amendments to the Sindh Energy Efficiency & Conservation Agency (SEECA) Rules 2022, the creation of an Energy Efficiency Testing Laboratory, and a public awareness campaign, among other initiatives aimed at reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainable development.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, at the 5th meeting of the SEECA Board, Shah emphasized the critical importance of energy efficiency for sustainable economic growth and environmental protection. He approved various strategic initiatives, including energy audits of public buildings, procurement of electric vehicles, and enhanced funding for SEECA to address growing energy demands and climate challenges. The board also endorsed the establishment of the laboratory in collaboration with NED University of Engineering and Technology, which will test products and support energy efficiency labeling and certification.

The SEECA Service Regulations 2026 and a revised organizational framework were also approved, focusing on strengthening institutional capacity through merit-based recruitment and professional development. Shah directed the agency to ensure the laboratory becomes a hub for research and innovation, supporting energy-efficient procurement policies and the proposed Sindh Green Building Code.

Energy audits of public buildings are set to begin, with the aim of identifying energy losses and providing data for performance benchmarking. Shah instructed provincial departments to cooperate with SEECA in implementing recommendations to reduce electricity consumption and carbon emissions. The board approved a budget increase to Rs330.85 million for FY 2026-27 to support these initiatives.

Murad Ali Shah concluded by underscoring the importance of energy efficiency in Sindh’s development strategy and called for transparency and accountability in the implementation of all approved initiatives. The board unanimously agreed on all agenda items.