The Pakistani government has mandated battery energy storage systems (BESS) as a mandatory requirement for upcoming power auctions to address grid challenges like the duck curve.

This decision comes after extensive consultations with stakeholders and private sector participants, aiming to stabilize electricity supply and promote a competitive energy market.

The Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) proposed three key amendments to the wheeling auction process, including mandatory BESS integration, extended proposal submission deadlines, and a grievance redressal committee.

The 800MW surplus power capacity auction aims to improve financial viability for participants by incentivizing BESS adoption, with minimum 10% firm capacity requirements.International precedents from countries like India and China, which have implemented similar mandatory BESS policies, were cited as justification.The move is expected to enhance grid flexibility and manage renewable energy fluctuations, ensuring a more resilient energy infrastructure.