Low-cost energy generation stressed
The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) urged the initiation of low-cost energy generation projects in collaboration with China, to reduce the cost of doing business in the country.
This was stated by President PCJCCI, Wang Zihai, during an online think tank session held at the PCJCCI premises on Sunday. Senior Vice President Ehsan Choudhry, Secretary General Salahuddin Hanif and a number of PCJCCI executives were present at this occasion.
Zihai, referring to his recent meeting with representatives of Tianying Company Shanghai, said that low-priced energy was produced in China through incinerating waste materials.
The company representatives gave a detailed presentation on how the Chinese waste-to-energy incineration model was a possible solution for the ongoing energy crisis and environmental pollution in Pakistan.
He added that Chinese company Tianying is willing to invest in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) incineration for power generation and that the company is seeking suitable project agents to begin investment in Pakistan.
Senior Vice President Ehsan Choudhry said, "We should adopt waste-to-energy incineration model in Pakistan, in partnership with Chinese experts." The shortfall of fuel and electricity in Pakistan is an indication to decrease dependence on conventional fuel and explore renewable energy as an alternative.
Pakistan has huge potential for renewable energy resources, such as wind, solar and biomass, which would also save our foreign reserves from importing fuels, he said and observed that through these resources, we will be able not only to meet energy demand in low cost, but also minimize environmental pollution.
Secretary General PCJCCI, Salahuddin Hanif, said that waste-to-energy incineration was playing a vital role in Chinese waste management and energy production.
He stated that in Pakistan, about 3000 megawatts (MW) of electricity can be generated using agricultural residue and municipal solid waste.
He added that Pakistan generates about 15 million tonnes of crops residue annually.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 18th, 2022.