Pakistan announces scheduled power cuts to manage rising energy prices

Islamabad | April 15, 2026: The government of Pakistan has decided to implement daily electricity outages during peak evening hours as part of efforts to contain rising energy costs amid global market disruptions.

According to the country’s energy authorities, power supply will be temporarily suspended for around two to two-and-a-quarter hours each day between 5:00 PM and 1:00 AM. The outages will be carried out in phases across different regions rather than nationwide at the same time.

The move comes as electricity demand surges in the evening, forcing reliance on expensive fuel-based power generation. Reduced hydropower output has further widened the supply gap, increasing dependence on furnace oil plants.

Officials stated that the measure is aimed at limiting the use of costly fuels and preventing a sharp increase in electricity tariffs for consumers.

The decision is closely linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving Iran, which has disrupted global energy supply chains.

A key concern has been the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas is transported. The disruption has pushed fuel prices higher, impacting import-dependent countries like Pakistan.

Authorities confirmed that major urban centres such as Karachi and Hyderabad will not face these scheduled cuts. The exemption is attributed to the availability of relatively cheaper electricity generation sources in the southern region.

Instead of nationwide blackouts, the government will implement rolling power cuts, ensuring that different areas are affected at different times to minimise widespread disruption.

Although Pakistan has managed to secure some fuel shipments during the crisis, it is paying significantly higher prices due to global volatility. The increased cost burden has prompted authorities to take immediate steps to balance supply and demand.