PM orders maximum two-hour power outages as RLNG disruption hits electricity generation

Officials briefed the meeting on constraints affecting the supply of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), which is used as fuel by several power plants. The meeting was informed that regional tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and related transportation difficulties had disrupted RLNG supplies to Pakistan, resulting in lower electricity generation.

Officials said load management had consequently become necessary to maintain a balance between electricity demand and available supply. The prime minister directed the relevant authorities to take immediate measures to address interruptions in RLNG transportation and ensure the most effective utilisation of available energy resources.

He made it clear that load-shedding should not exceed two hours in any area while authorities work to manage the prevailing supply constraints. Consumer grievance committees ordered. Shehbaz also ordered the establishment of Consumer Grievance Redressal Committees at the level of electricity distribution companies, or DISCOs, to address public complaints related to electricity supply and load management.

The prime minister directed that members of the public should also be represented on the committees to ensure consumers have a voice in the complaint-resolution mechanism. The committees have been ordered to become operational within one week.