Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has announced a bold initiative aimed at boosting the country’s reliance on clean energy. Speaking during a meeting with German Ambassador Ina Lepel, Leghari expressed his commitment to increasing Pakistan’s share of clean energy from the current 55 percent to 90 percent within the next decade.
Leghari highlighted that Pakistan is already generating a significant amount of electricity from indigenous sources such as coal and natural gas. This has not only strengthened energy self-reliance but also ensured greater sustainability, he added. He informed that around 800 megawatts of renewable energy would be planned through a competitive market mechanism.
The minister emphasized the importance of battery energy storage systems (BESS) for maintaining a modern and stable energy network. Leghari mentioned that a BESS project for LESCO is under consideration with support from GIZ. He also stressed the need for investment in transmission infrastructure, noting that significant funding would be required to expand and upgrade the network.
Leghari shared progress on the privatization of distribution companies, stating that three out of eleven DISCOs have been selected for initial privatization, with more expected to follow in the next phase. The minister proposed establishing a Pakistan Germany Energy Cooperation Framework to further strengthen bilateral collaboration and create enabling conditions for German financial institutions to participate in investment and financing opportunities.
Ambassador Ina Lepel expressed interest in enhancing the climate cooperation framework between Pakistan and Germany, which already includes the energy sector. She both sides might explore ways to further enhance its effectiveness. The Ambassador also mentioned an ongoing project worth around 300 million euros currently under implementation, with new projects being prepared for 2027.
Both sides agreed to enhance technical level engagement in the energy sector and continue close coordination. They expressed their intention to meet again in the near future to discuss further cooperation efforts.
The minister’s announcement underscores Pakistan's commitment to transitioning towards a cleaner energy mix and aligning with international best practices. This move is expected to not only improve energy security but also contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
