K-Electric Warns of Possible Night-Time Load Shedding Amid RLNG Shortage
K-Electric has warned that it may introduce load management during evening and night-time peak hours in Karachi if a shortage of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) continues to affect electricity generation across Pakistan.
The power utility described load management as an extreme, last-resort measure that may be necessary if fuel supply constraints persist. However, daytime electricity supply is expected to remain largely stable, according to the company.
K-Electric spokesperson Imran Rana said the nationwide RLNG shortage had resulted from international supply disruptions and delayed shipments, affecting power generation in several parts of the country, including areas served by the utility.
He added that K-Electric was coordinating closely with Pakistan LNG Limited and other relevant authorities to help restore normal supply as soon as possible. The company also apologised to consumers for any inconvenience caused by the situation.
RLNG Shortage Raises Concerns Over Electricity Supply
Pakistan has faced electricity supply challenges in previous months due to limited availability of RLNG for power generation.
In August, the federal government apologised to consumers over load management linked to delayed LNG cargoes and said the situation would improve once the shipments arrived.
Earlier, in April, the government also apologised after electricity load shedding exceeded the promised limit of 2.25 hours, with reduced water availability for hydropower generation cited as one of the contributing factors.
The latest warning from K-Electric highlights continuing pressure on the country’s energy supply system as authorities attempt to manage fuel availability and electricity demand.
International Supply Disruptions Affect Fuel Availability
Pakistan’s energy sector has been facing additional challenges amid tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted important oil and gas transportation routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab.
These disruptions have contributed to uncertainty in international fuel markets and added pressure on Pakistan’s efforts to secure sufficient supplies.
The country is also working to finalise its LNG import arrangements for the upcoming winter months of December 2026 through February 2027, when gas demand typically increases.
Pakistan Reviews LNG Imports for Winter
Gas companies and the Petroleum Division had requested at least 22 LNG cargoes to meet requirements during the three-month winter period.
However, the energy task force, led by Lieutenant General Zafar Iqbal, has reportedly indicated that 10 to 12 cargoes may be arranged on a best-effort basis through diplomatic and logistical channels.
The proposed import plan is expected to be presented to the prime minister for approval. Each spot LNG cargo could cost around $100 million, requiring coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the State Bank of Pakistan.
Sources cited in the report indicated that actual imports could be lower, potentially reaching only seven to eight cargoes during the winter period, depending on international market conditions.
Karachi Consumers Await Further Updates
For Karachi residents, the immediate concern is whether the RLNG shortage will lead to electricity load management during evening and night-time peak hours.
K-Electric has indicated that any such measures would be a last resort, while daytime supply is expected to remain largely stable.
