Power-sector leaders examine implementation strategies towards net-zero electricity by 2040
The LUMS Energy Institute (LEI) organized a National Consultative Workshop in Lahore to advance strategies for Pakistan’s renewable energy transition. Building on its report “The Net Zero Transition: A Pathway to Clean and Sustainable Electricity by 2040”, the workshop gathered leaders from government, regulators, utilities, academia, and industry to discuss practical steps for achieving net‑zero electricity.
Experts and stakeholders identified five key priorities: aligning renewable generation with transmission development, expanding energy storage and demand‑side measures, strengthening grid flexibility, securing essential grid‑support services, and assigning clear institutional responsibilities. A major focus was the potential conversion of thermal generators into synchronous condensers to provide ancillary services such as reactive power support, system inertia, and short‑circuit strength.
Industry representatives, including thermal plant operators and equipment manufacturers, expressed strong interest in conversion opportunities, highlighting the need for plant‑specific assessments and clarity on costs, equipment life, and contractual obligations. Policymakers emphasized a technology‑neutral framework to allow different solutions to compete in providing grid‑support services, ensuring affordability and reliability for consumers.
The workshop underscored the importance of integrating renewable energy with existing infrastructure to reduce dependence on imported fuels and enhance system reliability. LUMS will consolidate the recommendations, including findings from ongoing synchronous condenser feasibility studies, and publish them by the end of 2026 to guide Pakistan’s phased transition toward clean, sustainable electricity by 2040.
Syed Faizan Ali Shah, Advisor to the Minister of Energy, said, “The framework should be technology neutral and give equal opportunity to all technologies to provide ancillary services.” He also called for new and advanced technologies to be allowed to participate.
Dr. Fiaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Senior Advisor, LEI; Chairman, Board of Directors, National Grid Company; and Independent Director, ISMO, said, “This national consultation turns the findings of LUMS’ net-zero report into implementation priorities, with clear actions and responsibilities to advance the 2040 electricity pathway.” Concluding the workshop, Dr. Tariq Jadoon, Provost, LUMS, thanked participants and said, “LUMS will continue working with government and industry to translate research into policy and practical solutions for affordable, reliable and cleaner electricity.”
