Sindh Energy Minister Imtiaz Shaikh emphasised that resolving the energy crisis is the foremost priority of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) upon assuming power.
While addressing at the Clean Solar Energy Conference held at a local hotel, he held the previous government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) responsible for the economic and energy crises in the country, stating that economic development is unattainable without resolving the energy crisis.
Shaikh asserted that the PPP-led Sindh government is actively engaged in efforts to overcome the energy crisis.
He criticised the former PTI-led federal government for neglecting energy projects in Sindh, while highlighting the provincial government's commitment to solar energy initiatives.
He pointed out that 233 basic health units and 37 major hospitals in the province have been solarised, and 40 government buildings, including the Sindh Assembly and Central Prison Karachi, are in the process of being solarised.
Additionally, Shaikh mentioned that Sindh is the first province to implement a hybrid policy and has signed business-to-business Memoranda of Understanding for electricity generation.
"Sindh is leading in solarisation efforts, with 200,000 units already solarised", he said. Recognizing the potential for electricity generation from renewable energy sources in Sindh, Shaikh emphasised the importance of tapping into these resources to boost revenue.
Speaking of the recent agreements, the energy minister shared that a business-to-business agreement for 400 MW of solar power has been signed with Engro, and another agreement for 200 MW has been made with another company.
Furthermore, the Sindh government is actively collaborating with K Electric on solar projects, with the aim of curbing expensive electricity and reducing load-shedding through alternative energy initiatives.
Shaikh extended an invitation to domestic and foreign investors, emphasising the ample opportunities in the province's energy sector.
Additionally, he encouraged investors to prioritise local solar companies over importing solar system articles, stressing that solar energy holds the key to resolving the country's energy crisis.
He commended the Sindh government's efforts in the clean and green energy sector, stating that the province's rich natural resources, including gas, oil, and wind corridors, make it an energy hub.
Earlier, the energy minister inaugurated a solar exhibition and inspected the stalls set up by various companies. Energy Secretary Abubakar Madani was also present at the event.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 19th, 2023.
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