Pakistan launches one-point power supply for SEZs to boost industrial efficiency
Reform aims to cut red tape, curb corruption, and ensure uninterrupted electricity for industrial estates and Special Economic Zones
Haris Zamir
Business Editor
Experience of almost 33 years where started the journey of financial journalism from Business Recorder in 1992. From 2006 onwards attached with Television Media worked at Sun Tv, Dawn Tv, Geo Tv and Dunya Tv. During the period also worked as a stringer for Bloomberg for seven years and Dow Jones for five years. Also wrote articles for several highly acclaimed periodicals like the Newsline, Pakistan Gulf Economist and Money Matters (The News publications)
Pakistan’s Power Division has initiated major reforms to streamline electricity supply to all industrial estates and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) through a one-point supply system. This move aims to reduce inefficiencies, curb corruption, and ensure uninterrupted power for industrial growth.
The directive, issued by Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Leghari calls on all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) to immediately coordinate with the management of SEZs and industrial estates to finalize supply and billing agreements in line with recent regulatory decisions.
This step follows the Cabinet’s approval earlier this year, after which the Power Division formally approached NEPRA (National Electric Power Regulatory Authority) on February 25 to seek permission for implementing a one-point electricity supply model for SEZs.
After months of consultations, NEPRA granted approval on August 11, directing DISCOs to enter into final agreements with SEZ management based on mutual discussions. The new framework ensures that instead of individual connections to units within a zone, a single consolidated connection will be provided, simplifying operations and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Directives to DISCOs
Minister Leghari has instructed all DISCOs to immediately begin executing agreements with SEZs and industrial estates as per NEPRA’s guidance. Once finalized, power distribution companies will provide electricity at a single point, enabling centralized management of electricity supply within zones.
This step is expected to eliminate unnecessary interference by distribution companies, reduce opportunities for corruption, and improve ease of doing business for industrial consumers.
The one-point supply model has been a long-standing demand of industrial stakeholders who often faced delays, excessive procedures, and inconsistent billing practices. Experts believe that by simplifying the process and empowering zone administrations, the move could boost investor confidence and accelerate industrial development.
The government sees this reform as a key component of its broader energy sector modernization and industrialization strategy. Implementation on the ground over the coming weeks will be closely watched by both local and foreign investors operating in Pakistan’s SEZs.
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