Federal Minister for Energy Owais Ahmed Khan Leghari has criticised former finance minister Miftah Ismail for allegedly presenting incorrect and misleading statistics to the public.

Responding to Miftah Ismail’s recent remarks, Leghari stated that the government is focused on promoting renewable energy and that Miftah’s claims regarding the sector were factually incorrect.

“The government has encouraged the installation of solar panels, and after the revision of net metering rules, solar prices have decreased. As a result, more than 4,000 MW of solar-generated electricity has been integrated into the system,” he added.

Leghari further projected that in the next eight years, net metering capacity would increase to 12,000 MW, ensuring solar consumers recover their investment within three to four years, offering an attractive return.

Net metering contracts to remain unchanged

He reassured current net metering consumers that their existing contracts would remain unaffected. He also pointed out that many countries adjust net metering prices to balance national grid sustainability and ease economic burdens.

The minister highlighted that renegotiations of Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements have resulted in savings of over Rs1,500 billion, which will soon translate into lower electricity costs for consumers.

He also revealed that 55% of Pakistan’s national grid currently relies on clean energy, including hydropower, solar, wind, and nuclear. He expressed optimism that clean energy contributions will reach 85% in the coming years, making Pakistan a leader in green energy transition.

Leghari dismissed Miftah Ismail’s criticism regarding sugar shortages and exports, asserting that the government took timely steps to stabilize the supply of sugar and wheat.

“It is unfortunate that a former finance minister is now politicising economic challenges, instead of offering constructive solutions. The government is working tirelessly to improve energy, agriculture, and economic sectors, with major reforms already implemented in the power sector,” he asserted.

The energy minister criticised Miftah Ismail for making claims without factual backing, calling it highly irresponsible. He concluded by saying, “We welcome constructive proposals, but baseless criticism serves no purpose.”