World Bank prioritizes investment plans for Pakistan's energy sector

ISLAMABAD, April 15, 2025 - The World Bank Group is exploring new investment avenues through public-private partnerships in Pakistan, with a focus on modernizing the country's energy infrastructure. During detailed discussions on Monday, two delegations from the World Bank and its affiliate, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), engaged with Pakistan's Finance and Power Ministers. The dialogue highlighted the government's commitment to promoting public-private partnerships as a means to attract investment and technical expertise while maintaining the National Transmission and Despatch Company within the public sector. Mr. Pankaj Gupta, the World Bank's Regional Director for Infrastructure, met with Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari to discuss ongoing reforms in the energy sector, addressing the privatization of distribution companies. Minister Leghari expressed the government's priority in meeting future energy demands in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. The government is also re-evaluating its net metering and solar energy policies to align with new energy needs. Pankaj Gupta underscored the importance of energy as a central focus for the World Bank and referred to Pakistan's vast potential for renewable hydropower from the Indus River system. The discussions led to a consensus on jointly establishing a long-term partnership plan with the NTDC, aiming to advance reforms in the country's energy sector and draw sustainable investments. A separate meeting with the IFC delegation was held to explore corporate finance advisory focused on public-private privatizations. The current engagements mark a crucial moment for Pakistan as it seeks to navigate the complexities of privatisation while enhancing its energy infrastructure and overall sector resilience. By collaborating with global partners such as the World Bank, Pakistan aims to leverage international investment to modernize its energy landscape and ensure reliable power supply for its population.