Pakistan’s electricity demand has surged beyond 21,000 megawatts (MW), creating a significant power shortfall, according to sources within the Power Division. The national grid is currently generating approximately 18,000 MW from conventional sources, resulting in a deficit of over 3,000 MW.

The country’s power generation portfolio includes contributions from various sources. Nuclear power plants are supplying 3,000 MW, while facilities using Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) are generating an equal amount. Local gas contributes 1,500 MW to the national grid, and coal-based generation accounts for 4,200 MW, with 1,800 MW coming from imported coal and 2,400 MW from local coal reserves.

Renewable and alternative energy sources are playing an increasingly important role in Pakistan’s power mix. Hydropower facilities are currently producing 3,900 MW, while wind energy adds another 1,200 MW to the grid. Sugarcane-based bagasse contributes a modest 79 MW to the overall generation.

A notable development in Pakistan’s energy landscape is the rapid growth of electricity generated through net metering, primarily from consumer-installed solar panels. This contribution has now surpassed 5,000 MW, marking a significant increase in distributed generation.

When net metering is included in the calculation, Pakistan’s total power generation exceeds 23,000 MW, effectively helping to bridge the gap between supply and demand during the current season.