ISLAMABAD: Solar net metering has emerged as a critical buffer against daytime power outages in Pakistan, helping the country navigate one of its most severe energy crises driven by fuel shortages and reduced hydropower generation. Despite a widening electricity shortfall, authorities have managed to avoid daytime loadshedding largely due to the growing contribution of distributed solar systems. With an estimated 8,000MW of installed net-metered capacity, solar users are injecting over 2,000MW into the grid during daylight hours—effectively saving the country from nearly four additional hours of loadshedding. Federal Minister for…
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Trump Signals Possible Islamabad Visit as Pakistan Leads Push for US–Iran Deal
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible visit to Islamabad if a final peace agreement between the United States and Iran is successfully concluded there, expressing optimism over ongoing negotiations. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “If a deal is signed in Islamabad, I may go. They want me,” indicating confidence in Pakistan’s role as a key mediator in the talks. He claimed that Tehran had accepted “almost everything” under negotiation, though he reiterated Washington’s demand for the dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear programme. Trump…
Read MoreCourt Bans Tree Cutting in Islamabad; Violations to Be Treated as Contempt
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court has issued a strong directive against tree cutting in the federal capital, declaring that felling even a single tree within Islamabad’s limits will be treated as contempt of court. The order was issued by Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro during the hearing of a case related to large-scale tree cutting in the city. Addressing the counsel for the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the judge warned that any officer found involved in tree cutting would face contempt proceedings. Expressing serious concern over the CDA’s conduct, Justice Soomro…
Read MoreTemporary Loadshedding Due to LNG Disruption; Crisis Expected to Ease Soon: Energy Minister
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, has stated that the ongoing loadshedding in the country is temporary and primarily caused by the suspension of imported gas since April 1. He expressed optimism that the situation will improve within the next few days. Addressing a press conference, the minister apologized for loadshedding during peak hours and said the government is committed to transparently sharing facts with the public. He explained that electricity generation from gas is not feasible during peak hours under the current constraints. Leghari noted…
Read MoreUK Acknowledges Pakistan’s Role in US-Iran Ceasefire as Energy Minister Meets British Envoy
Islamabad: April 16, 2026 Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari met with Mr. Sam Waldock, Development Director at the British High Commission. The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation and the geo-strategic situation in the region. The Federal Minister appreciated the United Kingdom’s recognition of Pakistan’s constructive and pivotal role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as well as hosting peace negotiations. He stated that acknowledgment of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts reflects positively on its continued engagement for regional peace and stability. Mr.…
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