'Energy affordability key for export growth'

The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry has welcomed the Cabinet Committee on Energy's approval of the National Integrated Energy Plan 2027-2060, according to The Express Tribune. LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol said cheap and dependable power and fuel supplies are central to industrial competitiveness and exports, and that firms struggle abroad when energy costs stay high.

Saigol described the plan as a constructive and significant move toward a more efficient and sustainable system, and argued that a single long-term framework covering power, petroleum and gas could reduce fragmentation between federal and provincial bodies. He also said it could curb duplicated infrastructure and investment.

Saigol noted that the plan's worth depends on implementation and visible gains for businesses and households. He added that wider use of local resources, renewables and energy storage could lower reliance on costly imports, take pressure off foreign exchange reserves and strengthen energy security, and he asked for genuine consultation with trade bodies and heavy energy users before the detailed plan is drawn up.