K-Electric (KE) recorded a 20% year-on-year increase in industrial electricity consumption during FY2025-26, with power usage by industrial consumers reaching a record 6.08 billion units, compared to 5.04 billion units in the previous fiscal year. The milestone reflects improving industrial activity and stronger economic momentum, particularly in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest commercial and manufacturing hub.
According to KE, the surge in electricity demand was driven by increased production across key industries, including textiles, steel and cement. The utility also attributed the growth to Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic environment, government initiatives encouraging industries to shift from captive generation to the national grid, and continued investment by manufacturers in expanding production capacity.
During the fiscal year, KE energised 349 new industrial connections and facilitated load enhancements for 273 existing industrial customers, adding approximately 168MW of demand to its network. The utility noted that industrial consumers continue to demonstrate some of the highest bill recovery rates, enabling uninterrupted, load-shedding-free electricity supply to compliant industrial zones.
KE Chief Executive Officer Syed Muhammad Taha said the record consumption reflects the collective efforts of the government, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and Karachi’s industrial community in creating a stable business environment that supports investment and economic growth. He reaffirmed KE’s commitment to providing reliable and sustainable electricity to power the city’s expanding industrial base.
Industry analysts believe the increase in industrial electricity demand is a positive indicator of economic recovery and manufacturing expansion. Higher on-grid consumption is expected to support greater operational efficiency, improve energy management and contribute to Pakistan’s long-term industrial and economic development.
