The Federal Government of Pakistan has officially approved a new Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) on January 24, 2026. The plan aims to tackle long-standing challenges in the energy sector, including circular debt, policy fragmentation, and lack of coordination among ministries. The approval was given by the Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) after detailed discussions with stakeholders in the power and gas sectors.
Key Objectives of the Integrated Energy Plan
The IEP is designed to provide a unified roadmap for energy production, distribution, and resource allocation in Pakistan. Its main objectives are:
- Address Circular Debt: Resolve the financial liabilities between power producers and government entities that have burdened the sector for years.
- Policy Harmonization: Align energy-related policies across multiple ministries to reduce inefficiencies caused by fragmented planning.
- Improved Coordination: Enhance cooperation between federal and provincial governments as well as regulatory authorities to implement energy projects effectively.
This approach is expected to improve operational efficiency and create a sustainable energy framework for Pakistan.
Recent Developments in Pakistan Energy Sector
Alongside the IEP, the energy sector has seen positive developments:
- Oil and Gas Discovery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: OGDCL announced new oil and gas reserves in Kohat district, with production of approximately 3,100 barrels per day. This will help meet local energy demands and support economic growth.
- Foreign Investment: Azerbaijan’s SOCAR plans to invest in Pakistan’s oil and gas sector in February 2026, which will boost development and strengthen foreign investor confidence.
- Renewable Energy Expansion: Pakistan aims to achieve 60% clean energy by 2030. Wind, solar, and hydropower projects are expanding, and rooftop solar adoption has more than doubled recently.
- Circular Debt Reforms: The government has initiated measures to reduce circular debt and improve financing structures, which will help in long-term sustainability of the power sector.
Expected Impact of the Integrated Energy Plan
The IEP is expected to:
- Streamline energy policy and reduce sector inefficiencies
- Lower financial burden caused by circular debt
- Ensure better distribution of electricity and gas across the country
- Encourage domestic and foreign investment in energy projects
- Support Pakistan’s long-term energy security and sustainability
Conclusion
The approval of the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) marks a significant step toward stabilizing and modernizing Pakistan’s energy sector. Combined with new discoveries, foreign investments, and renewable energy expansion, the IEP is designed to create a robust and sustainable energy framework to meet the growing demands of Pakistan’s population and industries.
