PEDO’s plan promises revenue and power
Projects that were discussed under the upfront cost scheme were 1,124MW Kohala hydropower project, 700.7MW Azad Pattan hydropower project and second phase of 600MW Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park. photo: file
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government is taking proactive steps to address its ongoing economic challenges, including pursuing pending arrears from the federal government. To overcome the economic crisis in the province, the government plans to engage with higher authorities to recover these outstanding dues.
Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organization (PEDO) has emerged as a vital player in this endeavor, having formulated a comprehensive 10-year business and financial plan. This strategic plan not only holds the potential to generate substantial revenue but also promises the production of cost-effective hydroelectric power.
Dr. Syed Sarfaraz Ali Shah, the Caretaker Adviser for Planning, Development, Energy, Power, and Mineral Development, emphasized the pivotal role of the energy sector in K-P.
PEDO, a subsidiary of the Energy & Power Department, stands as a profitable organization responsible for contributing billions of rupees to the provincial income.
Also read: K-P CM calls for more power generation
Currently, PEDO oversees 42 energy projects, encompassing transmission lines, hydro, and solar power. The completion of these initiatives is expected to be a game-changer for the province’s economic stability and development.
In a notable development, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Transmission and Grid Company (KPT&GC) has been established to enhance electricity distribution within the province. This measure aims to facilitate the independent delivery of electricity, reducing the involvement of external entities like PESCO.
During a review meeting at the PEDO headquarters, Chief Executive Engineer Naeem Khan outlined the organization’s achievements, highlighting the successful completion of seven hydropower projects.
These projects collectively generate 161 megawatts of electricity, contributing over Rs4 billion annually to the provincial income. PEDO’s forward-looking business and financial plan for the next decade.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 23rd, 2023.