ISLAMABAD: The government has requested $375 million loan from the World Bank to improve electricity supply and operational efficiency of distribution companies (Discos) in Hyderabad, Multan and Peshawar.

The Electricity Distribution Efficiency Improvement project has identified the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (Hesco), Multan Electric Power Company (Mepco) and Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) for technical upgradations based on their needs and readiness to implement the project.

The three Discos account for highest power sector losses in the country and have failed to meet their investment requirements and provide reliable supply of electricity.

The project will improve access and reliability of power supply in the areas served by these Discos, says the World Bank project document.

The World Bank will likely approve the project in 2021 as the project appraisal has already begun.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2020