ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, has announced that the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) will enter its final implementation phase within the next two months, with commercial operations expected to begin by the end of September 2025.
The announcement came during a meeting with a high-level World Bank delegation led by Ousmane Dione, Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
CTBCM will empower Bulk Power Consumers (BPCs) — those using 1MW or more — to procure electricity directly through bilateral contracts with competitive suppliers. The Power Division stated that final touches are being made to the frameworks for wheeling charges and the allocation mechanism for wheeling quantum. The Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) will be pivotal in facilitating the market’s operations.
Minister Leghari emphasized that CTBCM would open the electricity market to free trade, reducing the government’s role to that of a regulator. He assured a gradual and stable transition through a well-defined strategy.
He also briefed the World Bank on key reforms in Pakistan’s energy sector, including net metering policies, privatization, regulatory improvements, and investment opportunities. Inviting international investors, Leghari said the government is committed to transparency and private sector-led growth.
Ousmane Dione praised the reforms and reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued support for Pakistan’s transition to a sustainable and investment-friendly energy system.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
