Islamabad: Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari met with Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan and his delegation to discuss avenues for bilateral cooperation and potential investments in Pakistan’s evolving energy sector.
High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan conveyed the interest of Canadian companies in Pakistan’s power generation sector. The Minister clarified that the Government of Pakistan does not plan to procure additional generation capacity in the future, adding that major investment opportunities now lie in transmission, network upgrades and the adoption of modern technologies.
Following the Minister’s briefing, the Canadian side also expressed interest in the transmission sector, noting that Canadian companies are eager to explore financially viable models. Both sides agreed that the Power Division would share details of upcoming projects in transmission, renewable energy and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to facilitate practical progress.
Minister Leghari highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing shift toward a competitive electricity market, under which the conventional government power purchase model will gradually be phased out, creating greater space for private sector participation. He noted that the Pakistan Business Council has also shown interest in undertaking transmission projects under the PPP model, which could provide further avenues for collaboration with Canadian firms.
He also briefed the delegation on the utility-scale solar project in Gilgit-Baltistan, informing that the feasibility study is nearing completion. Around 85 MW of demand has been identified across four to five locations, presenting a significant investment opportunity. The delegation was also apprised of potential investments in Gwadar’s energy and infrastructure development.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to advancing all future projects under the Least Cost principle, the Minister emphasized the vast potential of BESS investments in strengthening Pakistan’s power system.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain close engagement, enhance technical cooperation and continue sharing project details to encourage Canadian investment in Pakistan’s energy sector.