Power Demand Surges Amid Rising Temperatures
As temperatures soar across Pakistan, electricity demand has surged, pushing the Power Division to urgently request four liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes from the Petroleum Division. In a formal letter, officials warned that failure to secure these supplies could lead to increased load-shedding nationwide.
LNG Imports Halted by Strait of Hormuz Closure
The planned imports have been disrupted after Iran’s renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global energy shipments. Pakistan State Oil (PSO) confirmed that four LNG cargoes from QatarEnergy, already loaded and stranded, cannot be delivered until the situation stabilizes.
Costly Alternatives and Consumer Impact
Without LNG, power producers may resort to expensive diesel generation, driving up costs that would likely be passed to consumers through fuel adjustment charges. The Power Division emphasized that RLNG (re-gasified liquefied natural gas) is essential for affordable and reliable electricity, noting that higher production costs could extend load-shedding hours.
Government Efforts and Sector Adjustments
Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that Pakistan is negotiating to secure volumes from 8-10 available QatarEnergy cargoes once force majeure conditions are lifted. In the interim, authorities plan to divert gas from the CNG sector to power generation in May, while limiting domestic supply to cooking times only. Hydropower from Tarbela Dam has provided some relief, but the gap remains significant.
Broader Regional Tensions
The crisis stems from broader US-Iran tensions, with Tehran closing the strait after alleging continued US naval “piracy.” This geopolitical flare-up has already impacted global oil markets and regional stability, complicating Pakistan’s energy security efforts.
With LNG imports uncertain, Pakistan faces a challenging summer of potential blackouts and economic strain as it balances urgent power needs against volatile international dynamics.
