No energy crisis in country despite oil disruptions: PM

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said that despite disruptions in oil supply due to regional tensions, no electricity crisis had emerged in the country owing to a significant share of renewable energy in electricity generation.

The prime minister, while chairing a meeting regarding long-term energy planning and export strategy during the current international situation, directed authorities to expedite work on the Battery Energy Storage System project.

“Solar energy and other renewable energy sources are the future of the power sector,” he said and directed the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to further expand renewable energy sources at the national level.

He noted that Pakistani exports to Gulf countries were continuing despite recent global tensions and challenges.

The prime minister instructed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to arrange ships to increase exports via maritime routes.

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“Despite regional tensions, successful diplomacy has ensured the continued supply of Pakistani exports to Gulf countries,” he added.

The prime minister was briefed on the long-term strategy for electricity generation, opportunities for exports in the current global situation, challenges faced and measures to address them.

He was told that currently, 55% of total electricity generation comes from renewable sources, while 45% came from fossil fuels, with planning underway to increase electricity generation from renewable sources to 90% and reduce fossil fuel-based generation to 10% over the next 10 years.

The meeting’s members were also told that diplomatic efforts with Gulf countries were ongoing to facilitate national exports in light of recent regional tensions.

They were further told that demand for Pakistani agricultural products in Gulf countries had been steadily increasing.