ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared future energy planning critical for Pakistan’s stability, announcing key steps to strengthen energy security as the country battles a deepening power crisis and global supply uncertainties.

Chairing a high level meeting on energy security, the prime minister said timely government decisions during recent Middle East tensions helped avert a major crisis. He revealed that work is underway on a comprehensive plan to establish strategic crude oil reserves to safeguard the country against future shocks.

In a major policy shift, Shehbaz Sharif directed that only electric buses and motorcycles should be procured for government use going forward. He also called for rapid expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure to accelerate the transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable transport system.

The prime minister stressed the need to develop a strong battery storage ecosystem, urging authorities to promote local manufacturing of high quality storage batteries. He highlighted the importance of storing surplus solar energy to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources.

Officials briefed the meeting that petroleum reserves remain stable and local oil and gas production is gradually increasing. Meanwhile, two pilot battery storage projects at the grid level are being developed, while households generating solar power are being encouraged to adopt storage solutions.

Despite these efforts, Pakistan continues to face a severe electricity shortfall ranging between 4500 and 6500 megawatts, resulting in prolonged load shedding. The government aims to convert 30 percent of vehicles to electric within five years, a move expected to save billions in fuel costs and reshape the country’s energy future.