Rating History
Dissemination Date Long-Term Rating Short-Term Rating Outlook Action Rating Watch
17-Jul-25 A A1 Stable Initial -
About the Entity

DHA Energy Supply Company (Private) Limited (DESCO) was incorporated on March 2, 2017, as a private limited Company, headquartered in DHA Karachi. DESCO was set up to develop and operate an electricity supply and distribution network tailored to the energy demands of DHA City . The Company aims to promote efficient and sustainable energy usage, particularly in urban and residential areas. Currently, DESCO is not operational and is awaiting regulatory approval from NEPRA for its distribution license to serve DHA City. The Company is led by Chief Executive Officer Brig. Sohail Imtiaz and supported by a seasoned management team, including Chief Financial Officer Mr. Haseeb Hafeez Uddeen, Col Muhammad Shabbar Ali Saeed (Retd) and Mr. Faisal Malik both overseeing operational matters. All are experienced professionals with demonstrated strengths in leadership and financial management.

Rating Rationale

The ratings are supported by the strong and stable ultimate parentage of DHA Karachi in DHA Energy Supply Company (Pvt.) Limited (DESCO or 'the Company'), a special purpose vehicle established to develop and operate an independent electricity distribution and supply network for DHA City (DHAC), a flagship residential and commercial development of DHA Karachi. Notably positioned, DESCO is poised to become the third private entity in Pakistan to be granted a distribution license for a housing society, following a few others already operating under this category. Although not yet operational, the Company has applied to NEPRA for a 20-year distribution license, alongside supply license and is currently undertaking installation of its distribution infrastructure. The initiative aligns with the broader energy distribution landscape in Pakistan, which is predominantly managed by public sector DISCOs and faces systemic inefficiencies, including high transmission and distribution losses, aging infrastructure, and weak recovery mechanisms. Within this context, DESCO’s entry represents a progressive step towards diversifying the sector through embedded networks and specialized models for urban developments. The Company has formalized a power procurement arrangement with Lucky Cement for up to 6 MW and intends to secure additional supply from nearby generation sources. Operational readiness is supported through planned transfer of electrical infrastructure and machinery worth PKR 3.8bln, along with a related-party loan of PKR 6.070mln—both demonstrating tangible support from the sponsor. The Company also complies with NEPRA’s technical and solvency benchmarks and intends to implement a sound theft detection and penalty mechanism in accordance with CSM-21 regulations.

Key Rating Drivers

Comfort is drawn from the explicit written commitments provided by the sponsor, which were submitted as part of the documentation to NEPRA for the supply and distribution license. The ratings remain dependent on the timely receipt of regulatory approvals, continued sponsor backing through operationalization—considered critical to the Company's financial risk profile—effective coordination among key stakeholders, and the uninterrupted availability of electricity to end-users. Any delays in project milestones or regulatory challenges may impact the ratings going forward.

Profile
Legal Structure

DHA Energy Supply Company (Private) Limited (“DESCO” or “the Company”) was incorporated on March 2, 2017, in Pakistan as a Private Limited Company. It operates as a legal entity registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and has a registered office in 2-B, East Street, Phase 1, DHA Karachi.


Background

DESCO has been established as a special purpose vehicle to develop and operate an independent electricity distribution and supply network for DHA City (DHAC)—a flagship residential and commercial project of DHA Karachi (DHAK), situated at KM-50 on Motorway M-9, Karachi. The Company is focused on meeting growing energy demands by developing and operating a dedicated electricity supply and distribution network. Its focus is on promoting efficient energy management and delivering sustainable power solutions tailored to the needs of urban and residential communities. To ensure reliable power connectivity within DHAC, DESCO is currently engaged in the installation of its distribution infrastructure. The Company is procuring electricity from Lucky Cement under a supply commitment, as well as from other nearby generators and has applied to NEPRA for a supply and distribution licenses for up to 10MW distribution project.


Operations

DESCO’s principal objective is the supply and distribution of energy. To this end, the Company undertakes the construction, ownership, management, operation, and maintenance of distribution infrastructure, including distribution lines, electrical circuits, transformers, and substations. Since the supply and distribution of electric power in Pakistan is a regulated activity, DESCO has submitted a petition to NEPRA for the grant of a Supply License. In parallel, the Company has applied for a Distribution License to enable the distribution of electric power within DHA City Karachi (DHAC). DESCO is currently awaiting NEPRA’s approval for the License, following which it will commence its operations.


Ownership
Ownership Structure

DESCO is a wholly owned subsidiary of DHA Energy and Services (Private) Limited (The HOLDCO) which is owned by the Pakistan Defense Officers Housing Authority (DHA Karachi ), a statutory body responsible for managing residential and infrastructure development for defense personnel. This ownership structure ensures strategic alignment with DHA’s broader infrastructure and community development goals.


Stability

DHA Karachi  is a well-established and professionally managed entity with strong institutional backing and stable ownership. Its centralized governance structure, consistent administrative practices support long-term strategic planning and minimal ownership-related risks. With a proven track record of successfully developing and executing large-scale residential and commercial projects across major cities, DHA has earned a solid reputation for reliability, regulatory compliance, and timely project delivery.


Business Acumen

DHA Pakistan exhibits strong business acumen through strategic planning, efficient resource management, and consistent project delivery. Its ability to respond to market needs, maintain financial discipline, and deliver high-quality developments has positioned it as a leading and trusted real estate entity in the country.


Financial Strength

The financial strength of DHA, the sponsor, is considered robust, supported by its strong business profile, diversified operations, and institutional governance. This strength is evident from the transfer of basic distribution infrastructure valued at approximately PKR 3.8 billion to DESCO. Furthermore, the licensing documents submitted to NEPRA clearly state that DHA Energy Services Limited—the holding company and a wholly owned entity of DHA—will extend financial and operational support to DESCO as needed.


Governance
Board Structure

The Board of Directors of DESCO comprises seven experienced professionals, all members are the nominees from the sponsoring entities. Three Directors represent DHA City and  Four represent DHA Karachi. The Chief Executive Officer is also a member of the Board. This composition ensures balanced representation, strong institutional alignment, and effective oversight in line with the Company’s strategic goals.


Members’ Profile

The Board of DESCO is led by Mr. Sohail Imtiaz, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of DESCO and is currently the Administrator of DHA City. The Board comprises experienced professionals contributing institutional knowledge and operational expertise. A prominent member of the Board, Mr. Faisal Imran Hussain Malik, is a Chartered Accountant (FCA) and CPA (Canada) with extensive experience in financial planning, corporate strategy, and the energy sector. Currently serving as the Chief Strategy and Finance Officer at DHA Karachi. Also, on the Baord is Mr. Faisal Malik who advises DESCO on regulatory and licensing matters, particularly in engagements with relevant authorities. Mr. Faisal Malik has 33 years of experience, including 12 years at K-Electric (KE), where he served as Regional Head in the Distribution division.


Board Effectiveness

While no formal board committees have been established, the Directors of the Board of DESCO meet regularly with active participation from its members. These meetings provide a platform for discussion on key strategic, financial, and risk-related matters. The Board actively supports the management by offering oversight, guidance, and timely decision-making to ensure the Company's objectives are effectively achieved.


Financial Transparency

Rahman Sarfaraz Rahim Iqbal Rafiq, Chartered Accountants, a reputable and long-established audit and assurance firm in Pakistan, has issued an unqualified audit opinion on DESCO’s financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2024.


Management
Organizational Structure

DESCO follows a structured organizational framework. The CEO, along with the Company Secretary and Chief Internal Auditor, reports directly to the Board. While the remaining departmental heads and team members report to the CEO.


Management Team

The CEO of the Company is Brigadier Sohail Imtiaz.  Col Muhammad Shabbar Ali Saeed (Retd) and Mr. Faisal Malik oversees operational matters. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is Mr. Haseeb Hafeezuddeen, an MBA, CPA (USA) with 30 years of experience in finance and corporate management. Company Secretary is Mr. Saqib Ali, FCMA & CIA has 28 years of professional experience. All executives report directly to the CEO and are supported by competent and well-structured teams under their respective leadership.


Effectiveness

The effectiveness of DESCO’s management is reflected in its structured approach and coordinated decision-making. The management team comprises experienced and qualified professionals who work in close coordination to ensure timely preparation and submission of filings, as well as obtaining necessary approvals from NEPRA and other relevant authorities. This collaborative approach has contributed to greater procedural efficiency. Once operations commence, the establishment of a formal management committee structure is expected to further enhance overall effectiveness and governance.


MIS

DESCO currently uses Peachtree Accounting Software, a basic solution by Sage, to support its daily financial activities. Upon the commencement of full operations, a formal and comprehensive Management Information System (MIS) expected to be established to strengthen oversight, enhance reporting, and improve overall efficiency.


Control Environment

DESCO maintains an adequate control environment with defined policies and procedures. The Company’s internal audit function performs regular reviews on financial, operational, and compliance controls.


Business Risk
Industry Dynamics

As of FY24, Pakistan’s total installed power generation capacity stood at approximately 45,888 MW, while actual power generation declined slightly to 15,662 MW. This underutilization reflects persistent inefficiencies in the power sector, with average capacity factor falling to 34.1% from 34.4% in FY23. The electricity distribution sector in Pakistan is primarily dominated by public sector distribution companies (DISCOs), with approximately eleven entities operating across the country, including K-Electric. These entities operate under region-based monopolies, distributing electricity within their assigned jurisdictions. K-Electric (KE), the only privately owned and vertically integrated utility, is responsible for the generation, transmission, and distribution of power in Karachi and its surrounding areas. While these utilities manage considerable distribution capacities, the sector continues to grapple with structural inefficiencies. Common issues include high transmission and distribution (T&D) losses, aging infrastructure, weak recovery mechanisms, and service delivery gaps—particularly in high-density and rural areas. Although efforts are being made to improve governance and upgrade systems, progress remains gradual and uneven across regions. NEPRA plays a central role in regulating the sector, including tariff determination, licensing, and performance monitoring. In recent years, limited space has opened for private sector involvement, particularly through embedded distribution networks, special purpose vehicles for housing schemes, and captive or dedicated systems. These emerging models, though still in their early stages, represent a cautious but important step toward introducing competition and enhancing efficiency in the distribution landscape.


Relative Position

While Pakistan’s electricity distribution sector has traditionally been dominated by public sector DISCOs, a gradual shift is emerging with the entry of private entities into the space. This transition has been accelerated by a recent regulatory development, in which NEPRA revised K-Electric’s longstanding exclusive rights to distribute electricity in Karachi and its assigned territories. The change has opened the market for new entrants—such as DESCO—to operate in previously restricted areas under a competitive framework. DESCO is among a few notable private players, including the distribution setup at DHA EME Lahore, established to meet the localized electricity needs of specific communities through dedicated infrastructure and service delivery models. With its focused approach, DESCO is well-positioned to serve as a model for privately managed, community-centric electricity distribution, in line with the evolving regulatory landscape and market dynamics in Pakistan’s power sector.


Revenues

DESCO is currently awaiting the issuance of its Supply and distribution license from NEPRA. Following the grant of the license, the Company will proceed to apply for tariff determination. As operations have not yet commenced, DESCO has not recognized any revenue to date.


Margins

Since operations have not yet commenced, DESCO has not generated any operating margins. However, interest income from savings accounts constitutes the Company’s current income and is reflected in its reported net margins.


Sustainability

DESCO’s long-term sustainability is anchored in its focused operating model, dedicated customer base, and the growing demand for reliable power supply within DHA City Karachi. As a purpose-built distribution company backed by a strong institutional sponsor, DESCO is positioned to serve a well-defined urban community with a predictable consumption pattern, reducing demand-side risk. The Company’s financial sustainability is expected to strengthen once commercial operations commence.


Financial Risk
Working capital

As the Company has not yet commenced operations, there is a minimal funds requirement which is met by its sponsors DHA City and DHA Karachi.  However, with the initiation of commercial activities, the need for working capital will emerge.


Coverages

As the Company is not yet operational and has no commercial borrowings, its free cash flows primarily reflect investment income generated from savings accounts.


Capitalization

As of December 2024, DESCO’s leverage stood at 23%, compared to 24.3% in FY24, 27.7% in FY23, and 30.5% in FY22.


 
 

Jul-25

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Dec-24
6M
Jun-24
12M
Jun-23
12M
Jun-22
12M
A. BALANCE SHEET
1. Non-Current Assets 0 0 0 0
2. Investments 0 0 0 0
3. Related Party Exposure 0 0 0 0
4. Current Assets 26 25 22 20
a. Inventories 0 0 0 0
b. Trade Receivables 0 0 0 0
5. Total Assets 26 25 22 20
6. Current Liabilities 0 0 0 0
a. Trade Payables 0 0 0 0
7. Borrowings 0 0 0 0
8. Related Party Exposure 6 6 6 6
9. Non-Current Liabilities 0 0 0 0
10. Net Assets 20 19 16 14
11. Shareholders' Equity 20 19 16 14
B. INCOME STATEMENT
1. Sales 0 0 0 0
a. Cost of Good Sold 0 0 0 0
2. Gross Profit 0 0 0 0
a. Operating Expenses (0) (0) (0) (0)
3. Operating Profit (0) (0) (0) (0)
a. Non Operating Income or (Expense) 2 4 3 1
4. Profit or (Loss) before Interest and Tax 2 4 2 1
a. Total Finance Cost 0 0 0 0
b. Taxation (0) (1) (0) (0)
6. Net Income Or (Loss) 1 3 2 1
C. CASH FLOW STATEMENT
a. Free Cash Flows from Operations (FCFO) 1 3 2 1
b. Net Cash from Operating Activities before Working Capital Changes 1 3 2 1
c. Changes in Working Capital (0) (0) (0) (0)
1. Net Cash provided by Operating Activities 1 3 2 1
2. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Investing Activities 0 0 0 0
3. Net Cash (Used in) or Available From Financing Activities 0 0 0 0
4. Net Cash generated or (Used) during the period 1 3 2 1
D. RATIO ANALYSIS
1. Performance
a. Sales Growth (for the period) N/A N/A N/A N/A
b. Gross Profit Margin N/A N/A N/A N/A
c. Net Profit Margin N/A N/A N/A N/A
d. Cash Conversion Efficiency (FCFO adjusted for Working Capital/Sales) N/A N/A N/A N/A
e. Return on Equity [ Net Profit Margin * Asset Turnover * (Total Assets/Shareholders' Equity )] 14.4% 17.6% 13.3% 6.5%
2. Working Capital Management
a. Gross Working Capital (Average Days) N/A N/A N/A N/A
b. Net Working Capital (Average Days) N/A N/A N/A N/A
c. Current Ratio (Current Assets / Current Liabilities) N/A 347.7 161.0 176.3
3. Coverages
a. EBITDA / Finance Cost N/A N/A N/A N/A
b. FCFO / Finance Cost+CMLTB+Excess STB N/A N/A N/A N/A
c. Debt Payback (Total Borrowings+Excess STB) / (FCFO-Finance Cost) 2.3 1.9 2.9 6.3
4. Capital Structure
a. Total Borrowings / (Total Borrowings+Shareholders' Equity) 23.0% 24.3% 27.7% 30.5%
b. Interest or Markup Payable (Days) N/A N/A N/A N/A
c. Entity Average Borrowing Rate 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%

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