ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s power generation increased by 6.3% year-on-year and 16.2% month-on-month to 8,939 GWh in March 2026, according to a report by Topline Research released on Friday.
In comparison, electricity generation stood at 7,696 GWh in February 2026.
The cost of power generation (fuel cost) declined by 15% year-on-year and 1% month-on-month to Rs8.1 per unit in March.
“This takes 9MFY26 cost to Rs8.2/units, down by 5% YoY,” the report stated.
Despite the rise in generation during March, the ongoing war in Iran has contributed to a global energy crisis, disrupting oil and gas supplies and affecting flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
While March figures show improvement, the situation in April may differ as Pakistan faces an expanding electricity shortfall of around 4,500 megawatts, mainly due to a significant drop in hydropower generation. This has led to extended load-shedding of up to five hours during peak evening periods in several regions.
According to the Power Division, the demand-supply gap widened midweek when electricity demand climbed to about 18,000 MW. Hydropower output fell by nearly 1,991 MW overnight, placing additional strain on the system and prompting the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) to increase load-shedding durations based on regional demand.
Earlier in the week, the federal government introduced a daily 2.25-hour power suspension during peak hours nationwide, excluding Karachi and Hyderabad, as part of a “peak relief strategy” aimed at protecting consumers from a sharp rise in electricity tariffs.
The Power Division said the plan is intended to cushion consumers from the impact of rising global fuel prices, adding that relief measures totaling Rs46 billion have already been provided.
