Pakistan Battles Power Crisis Amid LNG Supply Disruptions

Pakistan is maximizing its furnace oil-powered generation and delaying nuclear plant maintenance to tackle electricity shortages, caused by disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies due to the Iran war, according to power minister Awais Leghari. Load-shedding occurred in several areas on Wednesday as a consequence.

The nation faces a power shortfall of around 3,400 megawatts, exacerbated by reduced hydropower output due to decreased rainfall and irrigation demand. LNG-fired plants, with a capacity of 6,000 MW, now produce just 500 MW due to gas shortages, Leghari revealed in a press conference.

To bridge the gap, authorities are leveraging alternative fuel sources and delaying nuclear maintenance. Costlier furnace oil plants are operational, while negotiations for LNG supplies are ongoing, including with Azerbaijan's SOCAR. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik indicated potential spot LNG market engagements, albeit cautiously, to circumvent high premiums.