Leghari Hails NEPRA Decision on Direct Access to Electricity Network
Leghari Hails NEPRA Decision On Direct Access To Electricity Network
Published September 07, 2026 | 08:10 PM
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 7th Sep, 2026)
Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, on Monday welcomed the decision of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) regarding the determination of the Use of System Charge for open access users of the electricity network under the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) regime.
The minister stated that this decision marks a "historic milestone" in the reform and modernization of Pakistan’s power sector. He highlighted that it completes the necessary regulatory step required to operationalize open access under CTBCM, paving the way for the upcoming RFP (Request for Proposal) for the nation’s first CTBCM auction process.
According to Leghari, establishing a competitive electricity market is an essential part of Pakistan’s broader power sector reform agenda. This development will enable industrial consumers to bilaterally procure electricity from their preferred suppliers through a competitive mechanism, instead of being confined to purchasing from their respective distribution companies.
He further emphasized the advantages of the competitive market, which extend beyond industrial consumers, potentially benefiting ordinary users as well. Increased competition in power procurement can lead to:
- Efficient generation and improved utilization of existing power plants.
- Reliable electricity supply at better prices.
- Reduced inefficiencies across the entire electricity value chain.
- Greater participation of renewable energy sources, battery storage, and flexible resources.
- Enhanced utilization of indigenous and low-cost energy resources.
Leghari appreciated NEPRA’s role in this achievement, stating that the decision on the Use of System Charge provides a robust regulatory framework for open access. He attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), NEPRA, and other stakeholders.
The minister concluded by expressing his commitment to completing the remaining tasks and operationalizing Pakistan’s competitive electricity market, marking a significant structural change towards a more consumer-focused power sector.
