Pakistan plans to privatise three DISCOs in first quarter of 2027: adviser

Pakistan is targeting the first quarter of 2027 to sell Faisalabad Electric Supply Company, Gujranwala Electric Power Company and Islamabad Electric Supply Company, Privatisation Adviser Muhammad Ali said, as reported by Business Recorder. Due diligence is in progress, but prospective buyers have sought more time to evaluate the transactions. The government had been aiming to start bidding in December, and the timetable could slip slightly. Sales of the Hyderabad and Sukkur distribution firms are expected in the second quarter of 2027, with other DISCO transactions targeted for later that year.

The government is preparing investment safeguards and multi-year tariffs before bidding, while a reform paper is expected to be shared publicly by mid-November. Plans include greater competition among electricity suppliers, improved metering and collection, lower system losses and performance-based rewards or penalties. The adviser said the changes are intended to address investor concerns and improve service, while sharing efficiency gains with consumers. He also said the government is reviewing privatisation options for PSO, SSGC and SNGP, and referred to K-Electric’s experience with regulatory uncertainty and tariff changes.