Pakistan power generation grows 5% YoY; fuel cost climbs 38% in August

Business Recorder reported that power generation in Pakistan reached 14,943 GWh in August 2026, up 5.1% YoY from the same month a year earlier. Output was still 1% lower than the 15,122 GWh recorded in July 2026. Arif Habib Limited called the rebound encouraging for power-sector activity, though it remains below the 16,176 GWh peak seen in August 2021.

Generation costs rose 38% year on year to Rs10.01 per KWh, compared with Rs7.27 per KWh in August 2025. The increase was attributed to a higher mix of RLNG and furnace oil, while elevated oil prices added further pressure. DISCOs have sought a positive FCA of Rs1.73 per kWh for August 2026, and the cost was 7% lower than the Rs10.75 per KWh recorded in July.

Hydel was the largest source at 38% of the generation mix, producing 5,654 GWh, which was 2.5% higher than a year earlier. Coal accounted for 27%, with coal output reaching 3,956 GWh, up 53%, as imported coal generation rose 105% to 2,330 GWh. Nuclear provided 10%, gas 9%, RLNG 7%, wind 6% and solar 1% of the mix.