PM Sharif orders EV push, strategic oil reserves amid energy security drive

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an acceleration in Pakistan’s shift to electric vehicles and the development of strategic oil reserves, as the government moves to strengthen energy security amid evolving regional dynamics.

Chairing a high-level meeting on energy security, the prime minister said the issue had become a central pillar of the country’s long-term planning, stressing that timely measures and conservation efforts had so far helped avert an energy crisis.

He directed authorities to prioritise the gradual transition of the transport sector to environment-friendly electric vehicles (EVs), adding that only electric buses and motorcycles should be procured for government use in the future.

Sharif also called for faster rollout of EV charging infrastructure and instructed officials to formulate a policy framework to facilitate the acquisition of batteries for storing surplus solar power. He emphasised the need to encourage local production of high-quality energy storage batteries.

Officials told the meeting that Pakistan currently holds adequate petroleum reserves, while the National Coordination and Management Council (NCMC) is monitoring the energy situation on a daily basis in light of regional developments.

The meeting was further informed that domestic oil and gas production was increasing due to continued efforts by energy companies. Two pilot projects for grid-level battery storage are also being prepared, while households generating solar power are being encouraged to install battery storage systems.

Sharif noted that Pakistan’s food security situation remained stable, adding that energy conservation and sustainable development would remain key priorities in the government’s strategy going forward.

The meeting was attended by several federal ministers, advisers and senior officials.