Rating History
Dissemination Date Long-Term Rating Short-Term Rating Outlook Action Rating Watch
04-Jun-25 AA A1+ Stable Maintain YES
14-Jun-24 AA A1+ Stable Maintain YES
21-Jun-23 AA A1+ Stable Maintain YES
29-Jun-22 AA A1+ Stable Maintain -
29-Jun-21 AA A1+ Stable Maintain -
About the Entity

KE is primarily owned by KES Power Limited, which holds a 66.4% majority stake and comprises a consortium of Al-Jomaih Group (Saudi Arabia), KE Holdings Limited, and Denham Investments. The Government of Pakistan holds a 24.4% stake, while the remaining shares are publicly traded as free float. The Company is led by CEO Mr. Moonis Alvi, who has been associated with KE since 2008, along with a skilled and experienced management team.

Rating Rationale

K-Electric Limited (“KE” or “the Company”) is a strategic national asset and only vertically integrated power utility of the Country, dedicated to ensure power supply across its licensed areas, which include Karachi, surrounding regions of Sindh, and parts of Balochistan. KE remains focused on long-term transformation and growth and is demonstrated by its approved Power Acquisition Programme (PAP) for FY24 to FY28, which outlines a strategic plan to expand capacity to meet rising energy demand. Currently, the Company’s own generation capacity stands at 2,397 MW, supplemented by 1,600 MW received from the national grid. KE’s distribution network spans approximately 6,500 square kilometers, serving a customer base of around 3.7 million. Under a rehabilitation plan for the transmission and distribution segments investment plan of USD 2 billion from FY24 to FY30 has been approved. The plan aims to grow the customer base and substantially reduce power outages. The generation segment constitutes the major share of revenue at approx. 50%, followed closely by the distribution segment, which contributes around 46%. KE’s tariff expired in FY23. To ensure a more structured approach, KE submitted separate tariff petitions for Generation, Transmission, Distribution, and Supply segments in December 2023. NEPRA has since approved the Investment Plan and tariffs for all segments—Generation in October 2024, and Transmission, Distribution, and Supply in May 2025, a significant development that bodes well for the Company’s long-term profitability and sustainability. With these approvals in place, KE is expected to publish its post-FY23 financial statements within the next quarter. In the absence of audited financial statements for the period post-FY23, the KE’s credit profile was assessed using managements financials, projection, alongside the actual operational performance and current outstanding financial obligations. The analysis and cash flow position provides confidence in the Company’s ability to service its debt on time. Further assurance is derived from the allocation of funds into Master Collection Accounts (MCAs), which are specifically earmarked for the repayment of long-term debt, ensuring timely fulfillment of financial commitments. Debt levels are projected to rise to fund improvements in the transmission and distribution network. Operationally, KE has reduced T&D losses and continues efforts to improve efficiency. Beyond its core operations, KE is diversifying through its wholly owned subsidiary, K-Solar, which offers EPC services for solar installations nationwide, supporting regional expansion. The current project pipeline remains strong and is expected to positively impact KE’s future earnings.

Key Rating Drivers

The Rating Watch reflects the delay in finalizing KE’s financial statements for the period post-FY23, primarily due to the absence of an approved tariff. Timely completion of these statements, along with the impact of recently approved tariffs on KE’s financial and operational profile, remain key factors. The rating also considers the government’s shareholding, alongside significant investments from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Ongoing discussions among the shareholders of KES Power, the majority stakeholder in KE, are seen as important for maintaining corporate stability. Nevertheless, KE’s operations continue without disruption, with management operating independently and effectively.

Profile
Legal Structure

K-Electric Limited (“KE” or “the Company”), originally incorporated as Karachi Electric Supply Company Limited (KESC) in 1913 under the repealed Indian Companies Act, 1882 (now replaced by the Companies Act, 2017), is a publicly listed entity with its shares traded on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX).


Background

KE has an installed power generation capacity of 2,397 MW through its own generation assets. In addition to in-house generation, KE has power procurement arrangements with various Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the Central Power Purchasing Agency – Guaranteed (CPPA-G), contributing over 1,600 MW to its power supply portfolio. The Company’s transmission network is integrated with the national grid via interconnection with the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC). The network infrastructure includes transmission lines operating at 500kV, 220kV, 132kV, and 66kV voltage levels, 79 grid stations, and 129 power transformers, enabling efficient transmission of electricity across its service territory.


Operations

KE is the only vertically integrated power utility in Pakistan, primarily engaged in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy. The Company operates under the legal framework established by the Electricity Act, 1910, and the Regulation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution of Electric Power Act, 1997 (Act XL of 1997), commonly referred to as the NEPRA Act. Its operations are further governed by the NEPRA (Electric Power Supplier) Regulations, 2022, and the NEPRA (Electric Power Procurement) Regulations, 2022, which collectively define the regulatory landscape for power supply and procurement in the country.


Ownership
Ownership Structure

KES Power Limited, a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, is the principal shareholder of KE, holding a 66.40% ownership stake. KES Power is jointly owned by the Al-Jomaih Group of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Denham Investments and KE Holdings Limited. The Government of Pakistan (GoP) retains a 24.36% shareholding in KE, making it the second-largest stakeholder in the Company. The remaining shares are publicly traded as free float.


Stability

The involvement of the GoP as a significant shareholder, alongside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, contributes positively to the overall stability of the Company. This diverse ownership structure fosters international confidence, enhances credibility, and supports long-term strategic alignment with both domestic and regional stakeholders.


Business Acumen

One of the key shareholders in K-Electric through KES Power is the Al-Jomaih Group, a prominent Saudi-based business conglomerate with a strong presence in the corporate and financial services sectors. The group is affiliated with major global entities such as General Motors and Shell International.


Financial Strength

The financial strength of KE’s key stakeholders is built on their successful and diversified business ventures, especially within the automotive and oil marketing sectors. This commercial strength, alongside the sovereign stake held by the GoP, plays a crucial role in enhancing the Company’s financial stability, strategic resilience, and fostering investor confidence.


Governance
Board Structure

The overall control of KE vests in 13-member Board of Directors (BoD), including the CEO, where majority is nominated by KES Power Limited (KESP), KE’s holding company. In addition to KESP’s nominees, the Board also comprises of the directors nominated by Government of Pakistan (GoP) and an independent director. However, in October 2022, resignation of 3 directors nominated by KESP resulted in casual vacancies on the Board which cannot be filled by the Company as it is restricted from making change in its current Board composition in view of the following: i)An ad-interim order of the High Court of Sindh was passed on 21 October 2022, in the suit filed by Al Jomaih Power Limited & Denham Investments Limited against IGCF SPV 21 Limited and others whereby no change shall be affected in the present Board of the Company. ii) A directive under section 125 of the Securities Act, 2017 was issued by Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan on 08 November 2022 according to which the composition of the current BoD of KE shall not be changed, till further orders of the Commission.


Members’ Profile

Mark Gerard Skelton was appointed as Chairman of the Board of Directors (BOD) of KE in August 2022. He currently serves as a Managing Director in Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Advisory practice based in London. With over 20 years of experience in corporate finance and advisory, Mr. Skelton specializes in complex, cross-border assignments, navigating diverse legal jurisdictions and various waterfall structures.


Board Effectiveness

Currently, the Board of KE is supported by four key committees to ensure the effective functioning of its operations: (i) Audit, (ii) Finance, (iii) Human Resources & Remuneration, and (iv) Board Strategy & Projects. These committees play a crucial role in streamlining the Board’s processes and decision-making. The inclusion of directors nominated by the GoP, along with an independent director, adds significant depth and diverse perspectives to the Board’s operations, strengthening overall governance and enhancing strategic oversight.


Financial Transparency

A.F. Ferguson & Company, Chartered Accountants, is the external auditor of the Company. The auditors have given unqualified opinion and review report on Company’s financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2023. As the complete MYT of KE has been approved in May 2025, the financial statements for periods beyond FY23 will be available soon.


Management
Organizational Structure

KE’s core business operations are organized into three main segments: Generation, Transmission, and Distribution. Each segment is overseen by a well-structured hierarchy, consisting of qualified and experienced professionals. This organizational framework ensures that the Company operates efficiently across its diverse business functions, with dedicated expertise managing the strategic, operational, and technical aspects of each segment.


Management Team

Mr. Moonis Alvi has been leading KE as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) since June 2018, steering the Company through various phases of growth and transformation. Mr. Muhammad Aamir Ghaziani serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), overseeing the Company’s financial strategy and operations. In addition to the leadership of Mr. Alvi and Mr. Ghaziani, KE's management team consists of a group of experienced professionals, bringing expertise to their respective roles.


Effectiveness

The Company operates with a strong foundation built upon four core pillars: (i) Thought Leadership, (ii) Knowledge-based Learning, (iii) Values, and (iv) Social Responsibility. These pillars guide the Company’s operations and strategic direction. KE’s leadership is deeply committed to upholding the principles of integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement, fostering a culture that encourages innovation and ethical practices. The Company strives to create a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, ensuring that its business activities contribute positively to society and the environment. This dedication to its CARES values, Customer Commitment, Accountability, Responsibility, Excellence, and Sustainability, propels KE’s vision of becoming a growth-driven, sustainable organization with a long-term focus on delivering value to all stakeholders.


MIS

KE has recently undergone a strategic transition to SAP S/4 HANA, a next-generation enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. This shift will help to enhance operational efficiency, data accuracy, and process transparency across the organization. With customer centricity at the core of its operations, the Company is leveraging advanced technology solutions to streamline workflows, improve service delivery, and support data-driven decision-making.


Control Environment

The new system supports upcoming regulatory frameworks, such as ‘Time of Use’ (ToU) tariffs, and positions the Company to adapt to the potential deregulation of the power sector. In parallel, KE is advancing its grid modernization efforts by integrating a state-of-the-art Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) communication system at nine newly constructed grid stations. These grids connected to the Load Dispatch Center, enabling real-time monitoring, enhanced system reliability, and improved demand-supply management. Additionally, these upgrades contribute to better environmental controls through optimized energy flow, reduced transmission losses, and improved resource efficiency.


Business Risk
Industry Dynamics

As of June 30, 2024, Pakistan’s total installed power generation capacity stood at 45,885 MW. The country’s energy mix remains predominantly thermal-based, followed by a significant contribution from hydropower sources. Renewable energy, while currently accounting for approximately 6% of the total installed capacity, is anticipated to grow steadily in the coming years as the country shifts toward cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. During FY24, total electricity generation across the country amounted to 137,196 GWh, compared to 138,539 GWh in FY23.


Relative Position

KE is the only vertically integrated power utility in Pakistan, responsible for the full spectrum of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within its licensed territory. With a legacy spanning over a century, the Company has played a pivotal role in powering the nation’s largest metropolitan city, continuously evolving to meet the growing energy demands of its consumers.


Revenues

KE has a registered customer base of ~3.8 million at end-Mar25, of which 84.6% constitute residential consumers, 14.8% commercial, Industrial 0.6%, and the remaining comprises of agricultural and public consumers. The MYT was submitted in four distinct segments: Generation, Transmission, Distribution Network, and Supply. NEPRA approved the Generation tariff in October 2024, followed by the Transmission, Distribution, and Supply tariffs in May 2025. As approvals of entire MYT recently granted, additional time is required to finalize the Company’s financial statements. KE management has indicated that the accounts will be published soon.


Margins

Profit margins are directly tied to the revenue allowances that have been permitted by the regulator in the recently approved tariffs.


Sustainability

KE is committed to embedding sustainability at the core of its operations, aligning its business strategy with environmental, social, and governance principles. The Company is actively pursuing a cleaner energy future through investments in renewable energy projects, grid modernization, and energy efficiency initiatives. KE’s efforts include reducing transmission and distribution losses, integrating environment-friendly technologies, and promoting responsible resource management. Social responsibility remains a key pillar, with initiatives focused on community development, safety, education, and stakeholder engagement.


Financial Risk
Working capital

KE manages its working capital requirements through a balanced approach that includes a combination of short-term borrowings and internally generated cash flows. To further strengthen its liquidity position, KE has finalized a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the regulatory authority. The formalization of this agreement enables KE to offset its payables to the CPPA-G against Tariff Differential Claims (TDCs) receivable from the GoP, ensuring a balanced net financial position.


Coverages

According to management, the Company’s current cash flow position and debt profile remain comfortable and well-managed. The Company anticipates that this trend will continue, supported by sustainable cash generation and prudent debt management practices in the future.


Capitalization

The approval of the Investment Plan is anticipated to result in a significant increase in debt, primarily allocated towards the expansion and enhancement of the transmission and distribution segments. However, this is mitigated by the fact that KE has strategically allocated funds in its Master Collection Accounts (MCA), specifically earmarked for servicing its long-term debt, to meet its debt obligations in a timely manner.


 
 

Jun-25

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Jun-23
12M
Jun-22
12M
Jun-21
12M
A. BALANCE SHEET
1. Non-Current Assets 581,434 489,791 424,484
2. Investments 26,232 19,249 2,987
3. Related Party Exposure 429 275 182
4. Current Assets 416,567 550,813 408,024
a. Inventories 5,435 4,030 3,024
b. Trade Receivables 104,283 136,843 104,714
5. Total Assets 1,024,662 1,060,128 835,677
6. Current Liabilities 385,933 476,818 382,145
a. Trade Payables 288,600 379,069 297,613
7. Borrowings 309,804 283,088 184,300
8. Related Party Exposure 0 0 0
9. Non-Current Liabilities 73,770 50,050 45,281
10. Net Assets 255,155 250,172 223,952
11. Shareholders' Equity 255,155 250,172 223,952
B. INCOME STATEMENT
1. Sales 519,471 518,777 325,049
a. Cost of Good Sold (466,659) (450,241) (265,854)
2. Gross Profit 52,812 68,536 59,195
a. Operating Expenses (27,415) (23,719) (25,225)
3. Operating Profit 25,397 44,817 33,970
a. Non Operating Income or (Expense) (33,200) (24,048) (7,511)
4. Profit or (Loss) before Interest and Tax (7,802) 20,769 26,459
a. Total Finance Cost (34,570) (15,120) (11,113)
b. Taxation 11,476 2,875 (3,348)
6. Net Income Or (Loss) (30,897) 8,524 11,998
C. CASH FLOW STATEMENT
a. Free Cash Flows from Operations (FCFO) 64,797 68,380 59,424
b. Net Cash from Operating Activities before Working Capital Changes 16,564 48,261 44,556
c. Changes in Working Capital 44,245 (75,117) (2,296)
1. Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 60,809 (26,857) 42,259
2. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Investing Activities (49,646) (63,843) (74,465)
3. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Financing Activities (218) 84,804 22,061
4. Net Cash generated or (Used) during the period 10,946 (5,896) (10,144)
D. RATIO ANALYSIS
1. Performance
a. Sales Growth (for the period) 0.1% 59.6% 12.5%
b. Gross Profit Margin 10.2% 13.2% 18.2%
c. Net Profit Margin -5.9% 1.6% 3.7%
d. Cash Conversion Efficiency (FCFO adjusted for Working Capital/Sales) 21.0% -1.3% 17.6%
e. Return on Equity [ Net Profit Margin * Asset Turnover * (Total Assets/Shareholders' Equity )] -12.2% 3.6% 5.5%
2. Working Capital Management
a. Gross Working Capital (Average Days) 88 87 117
b. Net Working Capital (Average Days) -147 -151 -172
c. Current Ratio (Current Assets / Current Liabilities) 1.1 1.2 1.1
3. Coverages
a. EBITDA / Finance Cost 2.1 5.9 6.6
b. FCFO / Finance Cost+CMLTB+Excess STB 0.6 1.3 0.6
c. Debt Payback (Total Borrowings+Excess STB) / (FCFO-Finance Cost) 6.7 3.4 3.1
4. Capital Structure
a. Total Borrowings / (Total Borrowings+Shareholders' Equity) 54.8% 53.1% 45.1%
b. Interest or Markup Payable (Days) 196.3 341.8 360.1
c. Entity Average Borrowing Rate 8.8% 5.2% 5.3%

Jun-25

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Jun-25

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