Leghari invites Spanish companies to invest in power sector

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari on Thursday invited Spanish companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s power sector, particularly in transmission, digitalization, and advanced metering systems.

The invitation was extended during a meeting with a high-level Spanish delegation led by Ambassador Carlos Aragon, where both sides discussed ongoing power sector reforms, investment prospects, and avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The Spanish Ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and expressed keen interest in the country’s evolving energy landscape.

Briefing the delegation, the minister said the government has undertaken comprehensive reforms over the past two years to strengthen the energy sector. He noted that after addressing surplus generation capacity, Pakistan is now moving toward establishing a competitive electricity market, which will allow direct business-to-business electricity transactions.

Leghari also highlighted that the privatization process for three power distribution companies has been initiated under the first phase of the government’s broader privatization programme, with additional entities to be included gradually.

He identified significant investment opportunities in the transmission network, grid digitalization, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and advanced metering infrastructure. He added that nearly 16 million electricity meters across the country are being converted to digital systems in phases, presenting substantial opportunities for local and international investors.

The minister further announced that a dedicated research, development, and innovation programme will soon be launched under the Power Planning and Monitoring Company (PPMC). The initiative aims to provide a platform for young professionals and experts to present innovative ideas, with promising proposals to be supported through incentives and recognition.

Ambassador Aragon noted that Spanish companies possess strong expertise in defence and digital technologies and could contribute significantly to modernizing Pakistan’s transmission and metering systems. He emphasized the potential for enhanced collaboration in these areas.

Welcoming this interest, the minister said relevant technical institutions under the ministry would assess the capabilities of Spanish firms and explore practical avenues for cooperation.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement, with a focus on improving infrastructure, promoting knowledge exchange, and translating investment potential into concrete outcomes.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026