ISLAMABAD: A sharp increase in water releases from major reservoirs has significantly boosted hydropower generation, easing pressure on Pakistan’s electricity system and reducing load shedding hours across the country.
According to the Power Division, water outflows surged to 30,000 cusecs overnight, compared to just 8,000 cusecs a day earlier. This substantial rise directly translated into higher electricity generation from hydel sources.
Hydropower output jumped by 127%, increasing by 2,300 megawatts to reach 4,100 megawatts, up from 1,800 megawatts the previous day. The influx of low-cost electricity improved overall supply and strengthened grid stability, enabling smoother transmission operations.
Officials said the improved system conditions allowed the transfer of around 400 megawatts of electricity from the southern region to the central grid—previously constrained due to system limitations.
The development comes as electricity demand begins to rise, particularly from the agricultural sector. Experts anticipate further increases in hydropower generation as water releases continue to meet irrigation needs.
The immediate relief was reflected in reduced outages, with load management hours dropping from around six hours to approximately 2.5 to 3 hours in many areas.
Power sector officials remain optimistic, noting that the early availability of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG), combined with higher hydropower generation, is helping stabilize the system.
“The system is improving as more low-cost hydel electricity is added and fuel supply conditions ease,” an official said, expressing confidence that continued favorable water flows and fuel availability will further reduce load shedding in the coming days.
Authorities believe that sustained improvements in generation and transmission will not only ease the burden on consumers but also support economic activity during the upcoming peak demand period.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
