We authored the Pakistan chapter of the Chambers Global Practice Guide: Power Generation, Transmission & Distribution 2024, an essential reference for understanding the legal and regulatory framework governing Pakistan’s dynamic power sector.
The comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the laws and policies shaping Pakistan’s power generation, transmission and distribution. It begins with an overview of the power industry’s structure and ownership, highlighting the roles of key state-owned entities like WAPDA, NTDC, and DISCOs and the growing private sector participation through independent power producers (IPPs).
The chapter examines the electricity sector regulatory regime under the NEPRA Act and recent amendments aimed at fostering competition and enabling a deregulated market through the Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM) model. It also discusses provincial power sector regulators and the role of the Council of Common Interests.
Pakistan’s electricity supply mix, dominated by thermal and hydro with a growing share of renewables, is analyzed. The guide also delves into the legal and regulatory processes for constructing and operating generation facilities, transmission lines and distribution networks, including licensing, tariff determinations and approvals.
The chapter provides insights into Pakistan’s electricity import arrangements and the framework for cross-border trade. Furthermore, it highlights unique aspects of Pakistan’s power sector, such as attractive returns for investors, the challenge of circular debt, and the push towards indigenous energy resources and competitive procurement.
Recent policies like the Alternative & Renewable Energy Policy 2019 and the Transmission Line Policy 2015 are discussed, underscoring the government’s focus on sustainability, competition and private investment in the power sector’s development.
“This guide is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to navigate Pakistan’s complex power sector regulations and capitalize on the immense opportunities it presents,” commented Nadir Altaf (Partner – Pakistan) at RIAA Barker Gillette.
Please read the Pakistan chapter of the Chambers Global Practice Guide: Power Generation, Transmission & Distribution 2024.
For expert advice on power sector regulations, please contact Nadir Altaf.
This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.
RIAA Barker Gillette is Pakistan’s premier law firm, with an on-the-ground presence in four major cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar, and affiliated offices in Dubai (DIFC) and London.
The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.
RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.
