Parliamentary forum stresses need for comprehensive energy reforms

KARACHI: The Energy and Economy Parliamentary Forum convened its third meeting, chaired by Dr Nafisa Shah, and co-chaired by Arbab Sher Ali and Shezra Mansab Ali. The meeting was attended by Senator Sadia Abbasi and Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) Mubeen Jutt, Danial Chaudhry and Dr Amjad Ali.

According to a statement issued after the meeting, the forum emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive and inclusive energy reforms. It agreed to convene a parliamentary consultation to assess the ongoing negotiations with independent power producers (IPPs). The forum stressed that the negotiations should be conducted fairly, adhering to both national and international laws, while ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders.

The privatisation of distribution companies (Discos) was another key topic of discussion. The forum proposed that the government consider provincialising loss-making Discos through a public-private partnership model as an initial step. It cautioned that privatizing profit-making Discos could exacerbate energy losses, increase circular debt and impose unchecked billing burdens on consumers.Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the energy sector, the forum resolved to propose actionable solutions to create a more sustainable and efficient energy framework.