Powering Pakistan
As a concerned citizen, I believe Pakistan's reliance on imported fuel for power generation is neither economically sustainable nor strategically wise. Tapping into our abundant local coal reserves — especially in Thar — is not just an option, it is a necessity.
Pakistan imports over 47% of its fuel for power generation, draining precious foreign exchange. Meanwhile, we sit on an estimated 180 billion tonnes of coal, enough to power the nation for the next 200 years. According to experts, switching to local coal could slash electricity costs from Rs 20 to as low as Rs 7 per unit. That's a life-changing difference for the average household.
The conversion of projects like the Jamshoro Power Plant from imported to indigenous coal has the potential to save billions of dollars over the years, while also reducing electricity prices by Rs 2 to 3 per unit. It is a step toward energy independence and price stability, both of which Pakistan urgently needs.
Global examples — from Germany to India — show that coal continues to play a vital role in securing affordable and reliable energy. Pakistan should follow suit by prioritizing its own resources and safeguarding its future.
Let us power our homes and economy with what lies beneath our own soil.
Ehtasham Cheema
Islamabad
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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