Islamabad, April 23, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday underscored the importance of energy security in Pakistan’s long-term planning, stating that timely government measures on energy conservation had helped avert a potential crisis amid the evolving regional situation.
Chairing a high-level meeting on energy security, the prime minister said work was underway on a comprehensive plan to maintain strategic reserves of crude oil, keeping in view the country’s future energy requirements.
Highlighting the need for sustainable development, he stressed a gradual transition towards eco-friendly transportation, particularly electric vehicles. He directed authorities to ensure that only electric buses and motorcycles are procured for government use going forward, while also accelerating the establishment of EV charging infrastructure across the country.
The premier also called for a strategy to facilitate the acquisition of batteries for storing surplus solar energy, adding that local manufacturing of high-quality storage batteries should be promoted.
During the meeting, officials informed participants that the National Coordination and Management Council was reviewing the energy situation on a daily basis. Pakistan currently has sufficient stocks of petroleum products, while the food security situation remains stable, the briefing noted.
Participants were further told that continuous efforts by oil and gas companies were contributing to increased domestic production. Additionally, a PC-I is being prepared for two pilot projects focused on grid-level battery storage, while households generating solar power are being encouraged to install battery systems.
The meeting was attended by key cabinet members, including Ministers Musadik Masood Malik, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Sardar Awais Leghari, Attaullah Tarar, Ali Pervez Malik, Ahsan Iqbal, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, along with senior government officials.
Last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a series of austerity and fuel conservation measures as Pakistan sought to mitigate the impact of rising global energy costs triggered by ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The measures include a four-day workweek, early market closures, reduced fuel allowances, and a 20 percent cut in expenditures across government departments.
The global energy crisis has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28. In response to joint US-Israeli strikes, Tehran targeted American bases in the Gulf and effectively disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for global oil supply.
The resulting instability has driven up global oil prices, prompting countries worldwide to adopt energy conservation measures and reassess supply security strategies.
