Sindh unveils SEPRA plan for cheaper power
KARACHI: Sindh Minister for Energy, Planning and Development Syed Nasir Hussain Shah stated that providing affordable electricity to businesses and the public is the vision of President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, supported by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Announcement at Multi-Stakeholders Conference
Speaking at the Multi-Stakeholders Conference on Competitive Electric Market in Pakistan, he announced that the Sindh Transmission and Dispatch Company (STDC) and the Sindh Electric Power Regulatory Authority (SEPRA) will ensure cheaper electricity than K-Electric (KE). Electricity will be generated in Sindh, transmitted via STDC, and priced by the provincial government instead of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA). SEPRA’s staff has already been appointed, with formal notification expected this month. The initial supply will target the K-IV project grid, with a focus on industrial and economic zones.
Hybrid Energy Parks & Industrial Focus
He added that hybrid energy parks will help reduce tariffs and that Sindh is following international best practices to tackle energy challenges. High capacity charges of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) can be mitigated by expanding industrial activity. Several IPP contracts have already been reviewed, providing relief to consumers.
Provincial Representation & Renewable Energy
Shah also noted that Sindh currently lacks representation on KE’s board and has requested the federal government to allow two provincial members. The province has signed an agreement with KE for solar power supply and urged the utility to prioritize renewable energy over expensive fuel-based electricity. Related updates are available at Renewables First news.
Moving Towards a Competitive Market
The conference, organized by Renewables First and the Pakistan Business Forum (PBF), emphasized moving away from the monopolistic single-buyer model to a competitive electricity market. Speakers highlighted that the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contracts Market (CTBCM), approved by ECC and NEPRA decades ago but not yet operational, is essential for lowering electricity costs and ensuring affordable access for consumers.
Article / Report originally published at: The Express Tribune