Power generation hit as LNG shortage halts 5,000MW capacity

Pakistan’s power generation has been significantly affected due to the unavailability of liquefied natural gas (LNG), with around 5,000 megawatts of electricity not being produced from gas-based power plants, according to the Power Division spokesperson.

Providing details about the electricity situation during peak hours on April 27, the spokesperson said that hydropower generation increased due to higher water discharge from Tarbela Dam during the night. Hydropower output reached 6,000MW during peak hours, while the country’s total hydropower capacity stands at 11,500MW.

The spokesperson added that electricity generation also improved slightly as some power plants received local gas supply, contributing an additional 100MW to the system. Furthermore, around 500MW of electricity was successfully transmitted from the southern region of the country.

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Despite the improved hydropower output, electricity distribution companies carried out load management for one to two hours during peak demand periods. Officials said that the increase in hydropower generation helped limit load-shedding duration, ensuring it did not exceed two hours in most areas.

The Power Division clarified that economic load management is being implemented on feeders with higher losses under a specific policy and is separate from peak-hour load-shedding measures.

However, the major concern remains the shortage of LNG, which has halted production from power plants with a combined capacity of 5,000MW. Officials stated that once LNG supplies resume and water discharge continues to improve, the electricity shortfall during night hours is expected to be eliminated.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and working to stabilize power supply amid ongoing energy challenges.

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