Govt’s measures for energy conservation averted crisis: PM

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has termed energy security as a crucial part of the country's overall future planning.

He was addressing a meeting regarding energy security in Islamabad.

The Prime Minister said energy conservation and timely measures in the current regional situation prevented the emergence of an energy crisis.

Shehbaz Sharif said work is underway on a plan to maintain strategic crude oil reserves in the country in view of future energy needs. 

The Prime Minister emphasized that for energy conservation and sustainable development, means of transportation should be gradually shifted to environmentally friendly electric vehicles.

In the future, only electric buses and motorcycles should be purchased for official use. The Prime Minister said steps should be taken more rapidly to establish EV charging stations.

Shehbaz Sharif said a strategy should be developed to facilitate the acquisition of batteries for storing excess electricity generated from solar energy. He said local production of high-quality storage batteries should be encouraged.

It was informed that the country currently has ample petroleum reserves, and that the food security situation in the country is stable.

The meeting was informed that local production of gas and oil is increasing due to the continuous efforts of oil and gas companies. It was informed that a PC-I is being prepared for two pilot projects for grid level battery storage.

The meeting was also informed that households generating solar energy are being encouraged to install battery storage.