Islamabad: The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has urged all provinces to implement the revised Energy Conservation Building Code-2023 (ECBC-2023) to address Pakistan’s escalating energy crisis. In a letter dated January 1, 2025, Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari emphasized the critical role of energy-efficient building designs in reducing the nation’s power consumption, which is predominantly driven by inefficient cooling systems in the building sector, consuming over 60% of total energy.
The revised ECBC-2023, approved by the Federal Cabinet in August 2023, mandates the incorporation of energy conservation measures in building bye-laws and public sector infrastructure projects. Leghari highlighted a two-pronged strategy, calling for provincial development authorities, municipalities, and local governments to revise their regulations and integrate energy efficiency into provincial Annual Development Programs.
The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s directives issued during a strategic energy conservation meeting in February 2023, where the revision of Pakistan’s Building Code (2011) was prioritized. Leghari underscored the necessity for both public and private sector collaboration to ensure sustainable development and bolster Pakistan’s energy security.
These measures aim to lower operational costs, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to long-term economic stability. The letter specifically urges Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, to spearhead the implementation of ECBC-2023 across the province.
If successfully executed, this initiative could serve as a cornerstone for sustainable infrastructure development and address Pakistan’s ongoing energy challenges. However, it remains to be seen how provincial governments will respond to this critical call for action.
