Privatisation Commission Invites Bids to Sell Off Three Power Distributors
The Privatisation Commission of Pakistan has formally invited Expressions of Interest from prospective investors for the divestiture of three electricity distribution companies — Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO), Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), and Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO). The move represents a major step in Pakistan's long-delayed power sector privatisation agenda.
The EoI process marks the beginning of a structured sell-off programme that the government has been under pressure to accelerate, particularly as a condition of ongoing engagements with the International Monetary Fund. The three companies collectively serve tens of millions of consumers across Punjab and the capital region.
Analysts and energy sector observers have noted that the success of the divestiture will depend heavily on the government's ability to resolve outstanding circular debt issues, rationalise tariffs, and present credible operational data to potential strategic investors. Past privatisation attempts for DISCOs have faltered over these structural impediments.
The Privatisation Commission indicated that the process will be carried out in accordance with international competitive bidding standards. The government views private sector participation in electricity distribution as essential to long-term sector viability and reduction of fiscal liabilities from state-owned utility companies.
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