Avoiding breakdowns: Nepra for data index by public-private sector companies

The chairman, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra), Saeed-uz-Zafar, has laid stress on compilation of correct data by the public and private sector companies for consolidated policies and avoiding breakdowns.
Addressing a seminar on national strategy for effectively meeting short-term power shortage and role of conservation and load management here in Islamabad, he said: "All of our future planning and national strategies will come true with the availability of reliable, safe and affordable electricity."
He was of the view that when there is no dearth of talent, capability and spirit, future planning should be on realistic basis and in line with national problems. For this purpose, first of all distribution companies and other players of the power sector should compile accurate data for future planning. He also suggested that necessary measurements should be taken with respect to stoppage of power theft and decreasing line loses.
Professor Dr Abdul Khlaiq, chairman, Department of Computer Engineering, Centre for Advanced Studies Engineering (CASE), in his presentation, gave present power scenario of Pakistan.
He said there has been no increase in electricity generation for the last many years but its demand is increasing as compared to supply. "We must target industrial, commercial, agricultural and domestic categories of consumers in view of the future dynamics," he added. Dr Abdul Khlaiq said an ideal scenario is if we have sufficient power to achieve GDP growth rate, reliable and quality power on economical rate and optimum power cost, etc.
He, however, said that foreign investors are not being attracted on the basis of risks in power plant installation for which large projects do slip in early stage, due to investment risks and financial close problems. The seminar was attended by the representatives from ministries/divisions, Wapda, Discos, chambers of commerce and industry, and general public.