Pakistan's power generation rises 5% in September as fuel costs surge 32%

Electricity generation in Pakistan rose 5% from a year earlier to 13,217 GWh in September 2026, according to Profit by Pakistan Today, which drew on figures compiled by Arif Habib Limited. The average fuel cost of generation climbed 32% over the year to Rs9.35 per kWh. Even so, monthly output fell 12% from the 14,943 GWh recorded in August.

Hydropower remained the largest source at 4,834 GWh, while imported coal output more than doubled to 2,155 GWh and lifted its share to 16.3%. RLNG-based generation fell 56% to 804 GWh, and nuclear output slipped 15% to 1,893 GWh. Higher costs for oil-based and RLNG plants, combined with a shifting fuel mix, pushed up the average generation cost, and distribution companies have requested a positive fuel cost adjustment of Rs2.56 per unit.

Total generation in the first quarter of FY2026-27 grew 6% to 43,282 GWh, with imported coal up 192% and local coal up 56%. The proposed adjustment remains subject to regulatory determination.