ISLAMABAD – Web Desk: Pakistan is facing a challenge of efficient energy utilization and storage rather than power generation, Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari said on Tuesday.
Addressing the Solar, Storage & Flexibility 2026 conference, Leghari said Pakistan is undergoing a historic transformation in its energy sector, with solar power capacity now approaching 38,000 MW. “Pakistan no longer faces a power generation problem — the challenge now is efficient energy use and storage,” he said, noting that daytime surplus generation contrasts with evening peak demand.
Leghari said battery energy storage systems are essential for power transmission and grid stability, and dependence on imported fuel poses a threat to Pakistan’s economy and energy security. When Qatar’s RLNG supply was disrupted, the country faced nighttime load-shedding, though daytime solar availability helped. Clean energy now accounts for 55% of Pakistan’s power generation, with a target of 90% by 2035.
“Without battery storage, a 90% clean energy target cannot be achieved,” Leghari said, emphasizing that battery storage will be key to making electricity a national asset and balancing the grid. The government will promote local manufacturing rather than importing batteries, with the Ministry of Industry finalizing a local battery manufacturing policy.
A National Steering Committee on Battery Energy Storage Systems has been established, and pilot projects for BESS at DISCOs have been approved. The government is developing a national BESS framework incorporating safety standards, grid connection requirements, and investment rules. Leghari invited global investors and technology companies to invest in Pakistan.
