Pakistan finalises Covid-style plan to tackle potential energy crisis

Plan includes introducing a new pricing mechanism under which petroleum product prices will be revised on a weekly basis

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 6th, 2026) Pakistan has finalised a phased energy conservation plan, similar to measures adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, to address a potential energy crisis amid concerns over the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Under the proposed strategy, the government aims to reduce demand for imported petroleum products and re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG).

The plan also includes introducing a new pricing mechanism under which petroleum product prices will be revised on a weekly basis.

According to the officials, government meetings will be held virtually, and in the first phase the number of public holidays may be increased, following the model used during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The authorities have prepared a three-phase strategy consisting of several proposals aimed at conserving energy and reducing fuel consumption.

The plan, which includes around three to four dozen recommendations, is expected to be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday for final approval.

Once approved, the government is likely to begin implementing the measures immediately.

Senior government sources said that during the first phase, the energy-saving steps will mainly be implemented within the public sector.

In the second phase, private schools, universities and hospitals may also be asked to adopt online assignments and digital working systems in order to reduce commuting and fuel usage.

The strategy also proposes a weekly adjustment in petroleum prices to better respond to fluctuations in global energy markets and manage domestic demand.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to monitor petroleum prices was held on Thursday at the Finance Division.

The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and reviewed the evolving regional situation and its possible impact on fuel supplies and prices.

The officials said the government is closely monitoring developments in the region and preparing contingency measures to ensure energy security and economic stability.