Power Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari on Saturday stated that Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) would play a pivotal role in Pakistan's energy transition by enhancing grid stability, supporting greater integration of renewable energy, and paving the way for widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
Minister Addresses BESS Conference in Lahore
Speaking at the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Conference organized by the Pakistan Solar Association in Lahore, the minister explained that battery storage had become an essential component of modern power systems as Pakistan's electricity sector undergoes a fundamental transformation driven by the rapid expansion of distributed solar generation.
He noted that the growing use of rooftop solar systems has significantly altered electricity demand patterns, resulting in lower daytime demand and higher consumption during evening hours. "This changing demand profile creates operational challenges for the national grid, as surplus solar energy generated during the day must be balanced with rising electricity demand after sunset," Leghari said.
BESS as a Solution for Grid Flexibility
Leghari said BESS offers an effective solution by storing surplus solar energy during daylight hours and supplying it back to the grid during peak demand, thereby improving grid flexibility, reducing reliance on expensive peaking power plants, and enhancing renewable energy integration.
The minister announced that the government had declared battery energy storage a strategic priority and established a Federal Steering Committee on BESS to formulate a coordinated national policy and accelerate regulatory and implementation measures.
Potential for Remote Areas and National Grid
Leghari highlighted that battery storage technology offers immense potential to strengthen isolated grids in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), improve electricity reliability in Gwadar, integrate renewable energy in remote areas, and enhance the resilience of the national transmission network.
Emphasizing quality and standards, he stated: "Battery Energy Storage Systems are sophisticated energy systems that require strict adherence to international standards. Quality, certification, and standardisation must remain central to our strategy. Only high-quality, certified, and internationally compliant battery systems should be imported, manufactured, or assembled in Pakistan."
Adoption of International Standards
The Ministry of Energy has directed all relevant stakeholders to adopt International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards and permit only IEC-certified battery modules to ensure consumer safety and system reliability, according to Leghari.
The minister also said the government is promoting indigenous manufacturing of battery systems through a dedicated Battery Energy Storage Systems Manufacturing Policy being developed by the Ministry of Industries and Production. This policy would encourage domestic and foreign investment, facilitate technology transfer, strengthen local supply chains, and create skilled employment opportunities, with the long-term objective of transforming Pakistan into a regional hub for battery manufacturing and innovation.
Electric Vehicles and Integrated Energy Ecosystem
Leghari noted that the widespread adoption of electric vehicles would place additional pressure on the country's electricity distribution network unless supported by battery storage solutions. He said the government envisions an integrated energy ecosystem in which rooftop solar panels, battery storage, smart grids, and electric vehicles work together to improve energy efficiency, reduce pressure on the grid, and maximize renewable energy utilization.
"Pakistan's energy transition is entering a defining phase. Renewable energy, digitalisation, distributed generation, battery storage, and electric mobility will together shape the future of our power sector," Leghari said.
Call for Collaboration and Investment
Calling for close collaboration among policymakers, regulators, utilities, manufacturers, investors, academia, and development partners, the minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to creating a policy and regulatory environment conducive to innovation and investment.
He expressed confidence that, with the right policies, strong public-private partnerships, and a commitment to local manufacturing, Pakistan has the opportunity not only to become a major user of Battery Energy Storage Systems but also a regional hub for their manufacturing and innovation.
