The minister said the government has set the target of reversing the current energy mix of 60 percent imported fuel and 40 percent indigenous resources to 70 percent indigenous resources and 30 percent imported fuel by 2030. He said the government plans to increase share of renewable energy to 20 percent by 2025.
Omar Ayub Khan said electricity transmission system is being upgraded and the government has set the target of transmitting 26,000 megawatts of electricity by next summer. He said nuclear energy resources are also being exploited. The minister stated that a mechanism is being developed for early redress of consumer complaints.
The minister said energy sector has a vast potential of 80 billion dollar investment, and multinational companies are showing interest in investing in it. He emphasized the need to adopt latest technology in energy sector to ensure fast-track development. Omar Ayub Khan said the PTI government is working for wellbeing of people by ensuring meritocracy and transparency.
Talking about cost of generation, he said that generation cost of electricity would be overcome using modern technology. He said there are huge opportunities of investment in solar energy sector in the country and Saudi Arabia will invest in solar energy project of 500 megawatt in Balochistan. The minister said peace and stability in Afghanistan is imperative for development in the region and Pakistan is playing a commendable role in this regard. He said Pakistan is also an effective member of SAARC and desires to make it functional and an effective forum for regional countries.
Commenting on situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir, he said the situation is unacceptable for Pakistan and the world as well. He said Pakistan is standing morally, diplomatically and politically with Kashmiri brethren in their struggle for self-determination.
Earlier, Chairman Nepra welcomed the chief guest and foreign dignitaries. He also highlighted the mission and vision of Nepra and pointed out as to how Nepra is contributing and facilitating the power sector to support growing economy. He expressed the hope that the Afghan delegates will gain valuable knowledge for disposing of their responsibilities as a regulator and that the two nations will continue to exchange knowledge and skills in future. He also shared his future vision for Nepra. He urged professionals to focus on integrity, accountability, energy, justice and honesty while dispensing with their responsibilities.
