March 15, 2006
Government is alive to the energy requirement of the country and steps are being taken to diversify and maximize energy options. Under Water Vision Programme 2016, government is committed to construct five mega dames so that the energy requirement can be met. Alternate energy resources are being exploited through utilization of wind and solar energy. New licenses have been issued to companies for exploration of gas and petroleum. It was stated by Ms. Anisa Zeb Takhirkheli, State Minster for Information and Broadcasting, who chaired the seminar organized by Consumer Rights Commission of Pakistan (CRCP) on “Consumer Issues in Energy Sector”. The seminar was organized to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) which is observed globally on March 15 every year. This year the day is being observed with the theme “Energy: Sustainable Access For All”.
Ms. Anisa stated that government is alive to the consumer issues in energy sectors which include access, availability, quality and affordability. While 50,000 villages are still not available with electricity, the need for diversifying energy sources becomes more important. The government has taken a structural shift in the energy sector by using gas and other low cost energy sources for the production of electricity. Government is committed to provide electricity and safe drinking water to all citizens till 2007. The energy consumption patterns are specifically important for conservation of energy resources, she added.
Mr. Mazhar Siraj, while setting the context of the seminar pointed out major consumer issues in energy sector. He said that adulteration in lubricants not only increase the cost of the maintenance of vehicles but also causes heavy loss to government. The 71 percent increase in the petroleum product since January 2003 and its spiral impacts has sharply decreased the affordability of citizens.
Barrister Khaliq-u- Zaman spoke on Consumer Safety and Energy Efficiency. He stressed on consumers’ presentation in regulatory regime and on consumer education. Mr. Aftab Alam from CRCP spoke about the new developments in energy regulation in Pakistan.
Mr. Azam Ali Khan from Pakistan Council of Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET) spoke on the various renewable energy options available in Pakistan.