The government has officially entered the implementation stage of its plan to privatise power distribution companies, marking a major step in its broader effort to reduce losses in the energy sector.
Expressions of interest for three electricity distribution companies have already been published, while the overall transaction structure has also been approved, signalling that the process is now moving beyond planning into execution.
The update was shared during a high-level review meeting on the privatisation of power distribution companies, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday. Officials briefed the meeting on progress and the next steps in the first phase of the programme.
According to the briefing, the initial phase will focus on Islamabad Electric Supply Company, Gujranwala Electric Power Company and Faisalabad Electric Power Company. The government has already issued expressions of interest in both national and international newspapers to invite potential investors.
The Cabinet Committee on Privatisation has also approved the transaction structure for these companies, paving the way for investor engagement and further procedural steps.
Speaking at the meeting, the prime minister reiterated that privatisation of loss-making state-owned enterprises remains a key priority. He directed authorities to speed up the process while ensuring full transparency at every stage. He also stressed the need to develop a strong regulatory framework after privatisation is completed to ensure proper oversight in the future.
Officials further informed the meeting that roadshows are being organised this month to attract investors. International outreach is also planned, with engagement targeted towards investors from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and China.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Power Minister Sardar Awais Leghari, and other senior officials.
The move is being seen as part of wider efforts to reform the power sector, which has long faced financial strain. If successful, the privatisation drive could reshape how electricity is distributed in major cities and potentially improve efficiency, though the impact on consumers will become clearer as the process unfolds.
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