Power Generation Rises In July As Hydel And Coal Output Hit Record Highs

Pakistan's power generation rose by 7 percent year on year in July 2026, reaching 15,122 GWh, according to reports from Arif Habib Limited. The increase was primarily driven by higher output from hydropower and coal-fired plants. July's generation was the second highest on record for the month. Hydropower generation grew by 6 percent year on year to 6,019 GWh, while local coal generation increased by 10 percent to 1,650 GWh.

Imported coal generation jumped by 90 percent to 2,169 GWh, up from 1,140 GWh a year earlier. Coal-based generation saw a significant rise, but other sources experienced declines. Rural LPG generation fell by 33 percent year on year to 1,629 GWh, and gas-based generation dropped 9 percent to 990 GWh. Hydropower accounted for 39.8 percent of total generation, imported coal generated 14.3 percent, nuclear power contributed 10.1 percent, and local coal made up 10.9 percent.

The average cost of generation rose 38 percent year on year to Rs. 10.75 per kWh in July, up from Rs. 7.78 per kWh a year earlier. This increase was mainly due to a higher reliance on relatively expensive rural LPG and furnace oil generation, coupled with higher oil prices.