K-P targets 1,000MW electricity

Looks to federal help for swift completion of energy projects

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Secretary of Energy and Power, Nisar Ahmad Khan, has underscored the urgency of addressing issues with the federation in the province’s energy sector.

Emphasizing the importance of high-level engagement, he highlighted that ongoing power projects nearing completion will significantly contribute to the province’s economic stability and industrial development in the future.

Khan stressed the critical need for the timely completion of energy projects, stating that it is in the best interest of the province and its people. He urged the swift initiation of electricity production from these projects to meet the growing energy demands.

Speaking at a review meeting held at the PEDO house, Khan outlined the progress of the 42 energy projects under the supervision of the PEDO, including transmission lines, hydro, and solar power initiatives. Chief Executive of PEDO, Engineer Naeem Khan, provided a comprehensive briefing, reporting the successful completion of seven hydropower projects generating 161 MW of electricity, yielding an annual income of over Rs4 billion for the province.

Additionally, Khan informed the gathering about the rapid progress of 12 projects, including the Balakot Mansehra (300 MW), Madyen Swat (157 MW), Gabral Kalam (88 MW), Matiltan Swat (84 MW), Lawi Chitral (69 MW), Koto Dir (40.8 MW), Karora Shangla (11.8 MW), Chapri Charkhel Kuram (10.5 MW), and Mujahideen Power Project Torghar (6.9 MW). These projects, nearing completion, will generate a total of 778 MW and contribute an annual income of more than Rs45 billion to the province.

Highlighting the success in transitioning mosques, schools, and basic health units to solar energy, Khan noted the considerable savings in electricity bills for the province. Moreover, he mentioned the completion of 316 mini-micro hydel stations .

Published in The Express Tribune, December 15^th, 2023.