Advancing Sustainability in the Power Distribution Industry: An Integrated Framework Analysis

Abstract

This study examines the efficiency of Pakistan’s power distribution industry through an index that is experiencing financial and technical losses resulting in poor service quality, blackouts, and high tariffs. The index reveals a moderate decline from 2007–2015 and a decline to poor levels by 2022, with some improvement noted in reducing distribution losses and increasing recoveries. However, certain DISCOs have seen a decline in indicators such as reliability, quality service, safety, and recoveries, requiring continuous improvement. The study proposes a variety of measures to enhance the distribution sector’s performance, such as underground distribution, energy auditing, compliance with safety standards set by OSHA, addressing fuel scarcity to reduce load shedding, implementing smart metering and prepaid metering, and developing information technology infrastructure to interact with consumers.