Coal procurement: NEPRA unlikely to grant another extension to PQEPCL

NEPRA is not expected to approve another two-month extension sought by Port Qasim Electric Power Company Limited for coal purchases under an interim arrangement, Business Recorder reported. The request follows concerns about transparency at the company’s 1,320MW Port Qasim plant, while the Prime Minister’s Office has reportedly ordered an inquiry.

Bids include a South African coal offer with a US$2.10-per-tonne discount, described as the largest PQEPC has secured in its procurement history. The company is alleged to favour purchases from current suppliers at a smaller discount and to delay or halt the bidding process, claims not independently verified in the report. NEPRA’s decision could affect fuel costs reflected in electricity tariffs, and the issue is due to be raised at a hearing on September 2026 Fuel Charges Adjustment.