In a strategic move towards fostering competition and embracing a sustainable future, K-Electric (KE) has filed for a non-exclusive distribution & supply license in December 2022, signaling a new era in the power sector. The utility’s forward-looking investment plan, valued at Rs484 billion over the next seven years, aims to strike a delicate balance for access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy – the trilemma of today’s energy landscape.
KE envisions a future in which renewable energy accounts for up to 30% of total power generation, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints. With a projected 5000 MW of power demand over the next seven years, the utility is focusing on indigenous and renewable energy sources to meet this demand while reducing reliance on imported fuel.
The “30 by 30” ambition is the cornerstone of KE’s vision, a three-pronged strategy to increase the share of renewable energy by 30%, expand the consumer base by 30%, and reduce power outages by 30%. This ambitious plan not only addresses the immediate needs of a growing population, but it also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient power ecosystem.
The power utility is actively embracing innovation and digitization, laying the groundwork for a paradigm shift in the company’s operational landscape. The implementation of cutting-edge technologies such as the Advanced Distribution Management System, mobile workforce management, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and Advanced Analytics & Artificial Intelligence demonstrate the utility’s dedication to improving customer experience. These innovations are expected to translate into faster complaint resolution, fewer interruptions, and enhanced capacity, ensuring that consumers not only have access to reliable power but also enjoy a seamless and efficient service.
KE’s journey towards sustainability and innovation builds upon its past successes. Since privatisation in 2005, the utility has invested Rs.474 billion, doubling its customer base to 3.4 million and significantly lowering transmission and distribution losses, which now stand at an impressive 15.3%, being at par with NEPRA’s benchmark.
In the last seventeen years, KE’s supply capacity has risen from 2200 MW to 3380 MW, accompanied by a commendable increase in generation efficiency from 30% to 39%. The upgrading of grids, distribution transformers, and feeders demonstrates the utility’s commitment to expanding infrastructure to meet rising demand.
KE’s future investment plan, currently under review by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), reflects the utility’s adherence to regulatory processes and transparency. Having embraced competition, KE initiated a significant step by submitting a request for a non-exclusive distribution & supply. This decision positions the power utility as a dynamic player in the evolving energy sector, ready to explore new horizons.
Finally. the power utility’s ambitious investment strategy not only envisions a more sustainable and innovative future, but also demonstrates a commitment to meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing energy landscape. The industry is watching with interest as the utility navigates the regulatory approval process, recognising the potential for KE to set new benchmarks in the power sector.
