ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Owais Ahmed Khan Leghari shared government’s plans and hopes for power sector reform during his address at a stakeholder workshop on the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM). He called the initiative a “guarantee of Pakistan’s energy future.”
Speaking to industry leaders, regulators, and energy experts, Leghari said that the CTBCM reforms, years in the making, will transform Pakistan’s electricity market by introducing transparency, competition, and consumer choice.
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“The government is committed to establishing a transparent and competitive electricity market,” said Leghari. “The CTBCM will not only promote efficiency and competition but also create the conditions needed for increased investment in the power sector.”
As part of the reforms, the government is introducing an auction framework to meet 800 MW of wheeling demand, a move that will allow large industrial consumers to directly procure power from generators. This, according to the minister, will improve efficiency and reduce costs for major energy users.
Leghari also stressed that the reforms are aligned with international standards and designed with the economy and public welfare in mind.
“Export sectors will gain access to affordable and renewable energy, which is vital for their global competitiveness,” he noted. “Renewable energy integration remains a top priority for this government.”
He shared that the success of CTBCM hinges on continuous consultation and stakeholder engagement. “These reforms are moving forward on the principle of partnership. Stakeholder involvement is critical for building a truly transparent and functional market.”
The minister also assured that the government will provide full institutional support to the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) and the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) – the two key bodies tasked with overseeing market operations and regulation.
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He concluded by reiterating that the CTBCM reforms are not just a technical restructuring, but a foundational shift that will empower consumers, attract private investment, and secure Pakistan’s energy future.