• Government issues energy saving guidelines for public institutions amid power concerns

The Office of the Commissioner General of Essential Services has issued new guidelines to government institutions on conserving electricity and energy usage.

In a circular dated March 30, 2026, the Commissioner General of Essential Services instructed all Ministries, Provincial Councils, District Secretariats and State institutions to implement immediate energy-saving measures.

According to the guidelines, all government institutions have been instructed to switch off air conditioners by 3 p.m.

Private institutions have also been requested to follow the same measure.

The circular states that digital advertising screens at various locations must be turned off by 8 p.m.

It also directs local government bodies to implement appropriate plans to switch off street lights between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Meanwhile, large-scale gatherings with more than 100 participants, including concerts and similar events, are required to use alternative power sources instead of the national grid.