By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has imposed a combined fine of Rs50 million on the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) and the National Grid Company for repeated delays in implementing essential “black start” facilities.
Each company has been fined Rs25 million, officials said, following persistent shortcomings in meeting regulatory requirements designed to prevent prolonged power outages. Nepra explained that the black start mechanisms, which allow power plants to restart quickly after a total shutdown, were mandated in the wake of nationwide blackouts in 2021.
Despite repeated instructions and prior show-cause notices, both CPPA and the National Grid Company failed to make the systems fully operational, contributing to continued electricity disruptions in 2022 and 2023. “The black start capability is critical to restoring power swiftly after outages, and delays in its implementation compromise the stability of the national grid,” Nepra officials said, emphasizing the need for timely compliance.
The regulator noted that the fines serve as both a punitive measure and a warning to ensure that such essential systems are maintained and operational. Both companies have been directed to pay their respective fines within 15 days, with Nepra signaling close monitoring of progress in implementing black start facilities.
Analysts and energy experts have described the move as a necessary step to reinforce accountability within Pakistan’s power sector, highlighting the ongoing challenges of infrastructure development, operational oversight, and preparedness in preventing large-scale electricity disruptions.
