K-Electric (KE) concluded the Grand Finale of the Energy Progress & Innovation Challenge (EPIC) 2025 on Wednesday, reaffirming its commitment to promoting localisation and innovation in the energy sector. Over 250 applications were received from across the country, and after a rigorous internal screening and pitching process, 10 teams were shortlisted to present solutions tackling challenges such as AI-driven demand forecasting, predictive analytics for theft detection, IoT and drone-based fault identification, asset health diagnostics to prevent outages, and more. Cash awards of PKR 1.5 million, PKR 1 million, and PKR 750,000 were given to the top three teams The jury panel included representatives from industry and academia: Maha Qasim (Zero-point Partners), Shehryar Omar (Petroleum Institute of Pakistan), Shehryar Hydri (Endeavor Pakistan), Amir Iqbal (Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company), Tara Uzra Dawood (LADIESFUND Energy), Inam ur Rehman (Disrupt.com), Shaista Ayesha (SEED Ventures), Sheikh Imran ul Haque (former MD, PSO), Jehan Ara (Katalyst Labs), Nadeem Shaikh (Neem), and Syed Azfar Hussain (National Incubation Center, Karachi). Teams were evaluated on criteria such as technical feasibility, relevance to current operational issues, and potential for pilot implementation. First Prize: NUST Team The first prize (PKR 1.5 million) was awarded to the National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST) team led by Abdul Hadi and Syed Abdul Haseeb Ali. Their proposal uses LoRa MESH IoT technology to create a tamper-proof Pole Mounted Transformers (PMT) based load-shedding solution. The team presented a plug-and-play system that enables remote switching of individual PMTs, allowing for more targeted load-shed. The solution empowers utilities to take a more targeted and efficient approach by disconnecting only those customers who fail to pay their electricity bills. Second Prize: GCUF Team The second prize (PKR 1 million) went to the Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF) team led by Dr. Abdul Rauf Bhatti and Tallataf Rasheed. Their project applies artificial neural networks for electricity demand forecasting, crucial for grid stability and plant efficiency perspectives. Third Prize: NEDUET Team The third prize (PKR 750,000) was awarded to the NED University of Engineering & Technology, Karachi (NEDUET) team comprising Shariq Shaikh, Sohaibuddin, M. Waleed, and Mubashir Ali. Their project focuses on optimizing AI-based demand forecasting models for accurate electricity demand forecasting. Winning teams will proceed to a mentoring phase with K-Electric and partner organizations that help refine their concepts, strengthen feasibility, and unlock pathways to scale. K-Electric may consider further development or pilot deployment within its operational model. By supporting local talent through initiatives like EPIC 2025, K-Electric aims to foster sustainable, homegrown solutions for Pakistan’s energy challenges. The programme provides a practical platform for innovators to collaborate with industry experts, enhance their ideas, and explore real-world applications within the energy sector.