ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has termed the declaration of the Competitive Market Operations Date (CMOD) by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) a defining milestone in Pakistan’s power sector reform journey.
In his statement issued by the Ministry on Tuesday, the Minister said the transition from a single-buyer model to a competitive, transparent, and market-based framework reflects years of policy development, regulatory strengthening, and institutional coordination.
He noted that the development marks a decisive shift from reform planning to practical implementation. He emphasised that the new competitive market is based on transparency, open and non-discriminatory access to the transmission network, and enhanced accountability across the electricity value chain.
Highlighting the government’s phased approach to liberalization, the Minister said that the transition of 800 megawatts of demand to bilateral contracting has been approved. This will be carried out through transparent and automated competitive auctions over the coming years.
Leghari hailed the coordinated efforts of key institutions, including the Ministry of Energy (Power Division), Nepra, the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO), the Central Power Purchasing Agency-Guarantee (CPPA-G), the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB), and power distribution companies (Discos), acknowledging their role in achieving this milestone. He said the development reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening governance, ensuring financial sustainability, and building investor confidence in the power sector.
Concluding his statement, the Minister vowed that the government will continue to focus on delivering a reliable, efficient, and future-ready electricity market that supports innovation, promotes clean energy, and contributes to long-term economic growth in the country.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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