ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to accelerate the privatisation of key electricity distribution companies (Discos), underscoring the government’s commitment to power sector reforms aimed at improving efficiency and reducing fiscal burdens on the national economy.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review progress on the privatisation programme, the prime minister emphasized that the divestment of government stakes in distribution companies must be conducted in a transparent, competitive, and efficient manner to strengthen investor confidence and maintain public trust.
He also instructed relevant authorities to establish a strong post-privatisation regulatory framework to protect consumer interests, ensure service quality, and enhance accountability across the power distribution network.
Officials informed the meeting that the first phase of the privatisation programme will include Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO).
According to the briefing, Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the three distribution companies have already been published in both national and international media, formally launching the process to attract strategic investors.
The meeting was told that the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation has approved the transaction structure for the proposed sell-offs, while efforts are currently focused on market engagement and investor outreach.
To broaden participation and maximize competition, a series of investment roadshows is being organized this month. Separate investor engagement sessions are planned in Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and China to attract both regional and international investors.
Officials further noted that the privatisation initiative is expected to improve operational efficiency, reduce transmission and distribution losses, strengthen service delivery, and ease the government’s financial burden by reducing the need for ongoing support to loss-making utilities.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Power Minister Awais Leghari, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kiani, along with senior government officials.
The accelerated privatisation drive forms part of the government’s broader strategy to reform Pakistan’s power sector, attract private investment, improve governance, and create a more financially sustainable electricity distribution system.
Story by Zulfiqar Ahmad
