Govt announces 2.25 hour load shedding during peak time to curb tariff hike

ISLAMABAD : The federal government has formally announced up to 2.25 hours of daily power outages during peak hours, from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am, as part of efforts to manage rising electricity demand and contain generation costs.
According to a policy statement issued by the Power Division, the most significant challenge currently arises during evening peak hours when electricity demand surges, primarily due to reduced hydropower generation.
“If expensive fuels are used to meet this demand, it could lead to a substantial increase in electricity prices,” a Power Division spokesperson said.
“Keeping this situation in view, the government has decided to suspend electricity supply for approximately 2.25 hours daily between 5:00 pm and 1:00 am to minimize the use of costly fuels and prevent a potential increase in tariffs,” the spokesperson added.
The statement noted that, despite rising fuel prices, the average electricity tariff has decreased by 71 paisa per unit from July to February, resulting in a cumulative relief of Rs 46 billion for consumers.
This reduction has been attributed to structural reforms, targeted relief measures, strict adherence to the merit order, improved planning, and efficient system operations. Enhanced prioritization of low-cost energy sources, better utilization of generation capacity, and reduced transmission and administrative losses have also contributed to improved overall system performance and consumer relief.
Despite challenging global conditions, the country’s power generation remains stable, and sufficient capacity exists to meet demand.
The situation is being closely monitored under the direct supervision of the Prime Minister, who has directed authorities to ensure that electricity prices remain under control. Officials have been instructed to minimize any tariff impact, even if limited use of furnace oil becomes unavoidable.
In line with these directives, 80 MMCFD of local gas has been supplied to power plants, helping avert an increase of 80 paisa per unit and reducing the need for additional load management.
Officials said the peak-hour outages are aimed at preventing an estimated increase of around Rs 3 per unit in electricity prices. Despite limiting furnace oil usage, a partial increase of about Rs 1.5 per unit may still occur; otherwise, tariffs could have surged by Rs 5 to Rs 6 per unit.
Distribution companies (DISCOs) have been directed to share feeder-wise outage schedules with consumers to ensure transparency. Authorities have also instructed that no outages occur outside the announced schedule, except in cases of technical faults, which must be promptly communicated.
The government emphasized that the measure is part of a “Peak Relief Strategy” designed to curb electricity costs rather than conventional load shedding.
Reaffirming its commitment to public relief, the government said it is taking all possible steps to minimize inconvenience. It also urged coordinated efforts, including early closure of commercial markets, to reduce peak demand and limit further price pressures.