Amid concerns over a potential energy crisis and the uncertain situation in the Strait of Hormuz, the federal government has finalized a comprehensive energy saving plan aimed at reducing the demand for imported petroleum products and LNG. An official announcement is expected soon.
According to sources, the government has prepared a three phase strategy focusing on energy conservation, reduced fuel consumption, and a new mechanism for fuel pricing. The plan includes revising petrol and diesel prices on a weekly basis to quickly adjust to changes in the international market.
Under the proposed plan, government meetings will mostly be held virtually, and in the first phase the number of holidays may be increased similar to the measures adopted during the COVID 19 pandemic to reduce energy consumption.
Senior government sources said that the first phase will apply to public sector institutions, while the second phase may introduce online assignments and digital systems in private schools, universities, and hospitals.
Around three to four dozen proposals have been prepared and will be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for final approval. Once approved, the measures will be implemented immediately.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance stated that a committee formed by the prime minister to monitor petrol prices met under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb to review the evolving regional situation and the country’s fuel reserves.
