An annual report of Independent Power Procedures (IPPs) payments revealed that five major powerhouses were given tax-free payments. According to the report, Hub Power was paid Rs 260 billion at 16 percent capacity by the government, Engro was given Rs 74 billion at 54 percent capacity while Lucky Group was paid Rs 62 billion at 28 percent capacity. Similarly, Sapphire was given Rs 34 billion at 34 percent capacity, Mian Mansha’s powerhouses operated at 13 percent capacity and were paid Rs 25.6 billion. The sources said these companies are paid annually under agreements and the audit department is responsible for the rest The Ministry of Energy sources maintained that if there is any irregularity, strict action will be taken.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan