Pakistan's Power Crisis: Hydropower Slump Doubles Electricity Shortfall

Pakistan faces a significant electricity shortfall, doubling to 3,400 megawatts due to a steep decline in hydropower output. Power outages and telecommunications disruptions have followed. The situation is exacerbated by halted LNG imports amid the Iran conflict, pushing officials to rely on fuel oil and future hydropower recovery.

Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic increase in its electricity shortfall, climbing to 3,400 megawatts as hydropower output declined sharply. Power Minister Awais Leghari explained that widespread rains reduced irrigation needs, leading to less water release from dams and a 48% drop in hydropower compared to last year.

Efforts to manage LNG supply disruptions from the Iran war have been upended by the hydropower slump, resulting in six to seven hours of power cuts in northern regions. Despite the expectation of hydropower recovery, the current focus remains on fuel oil to maintain minimal outages.

With no immediate plans to purchase LNG on the spot market, Pakistan continues to grapple with increasing electricity demands. The government is encouraging national resilience amidst potential economic pressures from rising energy costs.

(With inputs from agencies.)