Energy Minister Imtiaz Ahmad Shaikh has said that 33 projects in the air corridor of Jhimpir and Gharo in Sindh are providing 1,835 megawatts of environment-friendly and green energy from wind.
He said this on Monday while speaking as the chief guest on the occasion of the inauguration of Goldwind Solution Factory at a local hotel in Karachi.
Consul General of China Yang Guanguan, Goldwind Solution Director Yang Jainyong, Mehran University former VC Aslam Aqeel, NED University Pro Vice Chancellor Dr Tahir and others were present on the occasion.
Shaikh said that the Sindh government is strongly encouraging environment-friendly and green energy projects and added "we want them to work quickly towards their own and environment-friendly sources of energy".
He said that around 477 wind turbines are being installed by Goldwind on eight wind IPPs which is encouraging. He said that there is a huge market for wind power, we are further developing wind, solar hybrid projects.
Shaikh said that the proposed solution factory with in-country spare parts and operation and maintenance facility will not only reduce operational costs of wind projects but also provide an opportunity for local technology transfer. He said that the establishment of Goldwind Turbine Solution Factory is another step towards success.
He said that according to a report, the population of the country will increase by 30 per cent by 2050, which will require 60 per cent more energy and 60 per cent more food.
"Resources are limited, we need technology and innovation to meet future needs while protecting the environment," he added.
He said that by having this type of solution factory, not only the cost of the projects will be reduced but also more employment opportunities will be created for the local people.
"This process will provide an opportunity to engage experts, graduates and faculty as well as contribute to the economic development of the wind energy sector," he added.
The energy minister said that the import of machinery and equipment has burdened the national exchequer as technology and machinery are being imported for all projects in the energy sector.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 13th, 2022.
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