Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen energy conservation and efficiency initiatives across the province, directing the Sindh Energy Efficiency & Conservation Agency (SEECA) to accelerate implementation of reforms aimed at reducing energy consumption, cutting public sector electricity costs and promoting sustainable development.
During the fifth meeting of the SEECA Board that he chaired at the CM House on Wednesday, Shah approved a series of strategic initiatives, including amendments to the SEECA Rules 2022.
Other initiatives included the establishment of a provincial energy efficiency testing laboratory, the introduction of new service regulations and organisational framework, province-wide awareness campaigns, energy audits of public buildings and an increase in the agency’s funding.
Shah said energy efficiency and conservation have become critical components of sustainable economic growth, environmental protection and fiscal responsibility. He directed SEECA to move beyond institutional development, and focus on delivering measurable reductions in energy consumption across government departments, industries and households.
“Every unit of energy saved is equivalent to new energy generated,” he said, stressing that energy conservation is among the most cost-effective solutions to address growing energy demand and climate challenges.
The board was informed that SEECA had been established under the Sindh Energy Efficiency & Conservation Rules, 2022, in compliance with the National Energy Efficiency & Conservation Act, 2016, to implement provincial energy efficiency policies and programmes.
Since November 2025 the agency has completed several foundational initiatives, including workplace safety compliance, the completion of the energy department’s energy audit, the enhancement of its digital presence and coordination with the Sindh Public Procurement Regulatory Authority to incorporate energy efficiency standards into public procurement.
Reviewing the proposed amendments to SEECA Rules 2022, Shah approved the measures aimed at strengthening governance, improving administrative continuity and enhancing technical representation on the board.
The amendments include provisions for the appointment of a managing director from among senior government officers or experienced professionals in the energy efficiency sector while also expanding opportunities for the inclusion of technical experts and industry representatives.
The board approved the establishment of a state-of-the-art Energy Efficiency Testing Laboratory through a joint initiative between SEECA and the NED University of Engineering & Technology.
The laboratory would initially test fans, lighting products and electric motors in accordance with national and international standards, and would support energy efficiency labelling, product certification and compliance verification.
Shah directed SEECA and the NED University to ensure the laboratory becomes a centre of excellence for research, innovation and capacity-building. He said the facility would play a key role in supporting upcoming energy-efficient procurement policies and the proposed Sindh Green Building Code.
The board also approved SEECA Service Regulations 2026, and a revised organisational framework designed to equip the agency with specialised technical and regulatory expertise. The new structure introduces merit-based recruitment, performance evaluation systems and professional development programmes to strengthen institutional capacity.
Emphasising the need for the government to lead by example in adopting clean technologies, Shah approved the procurement of electric and hybrid vehicles for SEECA operations. He directed the energy department to promote green mobility initiatives, and encourage public sector institutions to gradually transition towards energy-efficient transportation solutions.
The meeting also approved a comprehensive public awareness, outreach and capacity-building programme. Shah instructed SEECA to launch sustained campaigns through digital media, educational institutions, industries and government departments to promote responsible energy consumption and behavioural change.
To reduce public expenditure on electricity and improve operational efficiency, the board approved the launch of energy audits of public buildings and infrastructure across Sindh. The audits would identify energy losses in lighting systems, HVAC units, pumps, motors and electrical infrastructure, providing baseline data for future retrofitting and performance benchmarking.
Shah directed all the provincial departments to fully cooperate with SEECA in conducting energy audits, and implementing recommendations aimed at reducing electricity consumption and carbon emissions. He said savings generated through improved energy management should be redirected towards public welfare and development initiatives.
The board was informed that SEECA’s annual budget had remained at Rs200 million since its establishment and was later reduced to Rs100 million due to lower utilisation. However, with the expansion of the agency’s mandate and the launch of new initiatives, the budgetary requirement for FY 2026-27 has increased to Rs330.85 million.
After reviewing the proposed financial plan, Shah approved enhanced funding for laboratory establishment, energy audits, public outreach activities, procurement of vehicles and institutional strengthening. He directed SEECA to ensure transparency, accountability and measurable outcomes for all expenditures and revenue-generating initiatives.
He said energy efficiency must become a central pillar of Sindh’s development strategy. He directed SEECA to submit periodic progress reports, and ensure timely implementation of all the approved initiatives. The board unanimously approved all the agenda items.
