Industry seeks NAB probe into alleged overpriced coal purchases at Port Qasim power plant

Industry representatives called for a full review of coal buying at the Port Qasim power plant, including a probe by the National Accountability Bureau, alleging purchases through affiliated firms were priced above those made by other plants. Profit by Pakistan Today reported that the demand came at a Thursday hearing held by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority. Nepra said it would recognise only coal costs considered prudent, leaving the producer responsible for any expense deemed unjustified.

Data presented by the Central Power Purchasing Agency showed average fuel costs for electricity generation rose almost 37.5% year-on-year in September. Lower LNG availability led to greater use of diesel, furnace oil and imported coal, while electricity demand climbed 6.5% and industrial consumption advanced 6.7%. Industry participants said the rise in industrial grid use reflected a move away from captive generation, not the effect of an incremental package. Diesel generation cost Rs62.14 per unit in September, while furnace oil generation cost fell to Rs44.86 per unit.