PM Shehbaz orders gas load management plan for winter, steps for ensuring uninterrupted imports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed government officials to develop a thorough plan for managing gas during the winter months, ensuring uninterrupted gas imports, according to a statement by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). The meeting in Islamabad focused on the winter season gas load management, with the PM emphasizing preparation of the plan, taking advance measures, initiating a public awareness campaign, and securing uninterrupted gas imports considering the regional situation.

Domestic consumers would be prioritized for locally produced gas supplies, while residual liquefied natural gas (RLNG) would be focused on power generation and industries. A public awareness campaign would promote alternative household energy sources. The meeting also discussed ensuring uninterrupted gas transmission from northern reserves and considering bank financing facilities for heating appliances.

The authorities are grappling with finalizing the liquefied natural gas (LNG) import plan for December to February due to the US-Iran conflict disrupting oil and gas routes and raising fuel prices. The task force on energy has aimed for 10-12 cargoes of 100 million cubic feet each, but the best-effort basis would likely provide fewer than nine cargoes, impacting current account targets and the $1.2 billion IMF loan.

Ogra has also increased LPG prices by 8%, raising the cost of an 11.8kg domestic cylinder by Rs244.14 for October.