Solarisation of tube wells discussed

QESCO authorities present briefings on obstacles to converting agricultural electric tube wells to solar power

QUETTA:

Top officials from the federal government, Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), and the provincial government on Thursday held a meeting to discuss the transition of agricultural tube wells to solar energy.

The meeting, held under the directive of Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, focused on overcoming the hurdles impeding this critical shift. Key attendees included Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Federal Minister of State for Energy Ali Pervez Malik, Secretary Power Division Rashid Mehmood, alongside representatives from federal and provincial bodies and QESCO officials.

During the session, federal and provincial authorities presented detailed briefings on the obstacles to converting agricultural electric tube wells to solar power. A significant concern for the federal government is the potential dual use of solar and electric systems by growers, which could disrupt the effectiveness of the solar transition.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti acknowledged these concerns and stressed the importance of resolving them through mutual understanding. He noted the federal government’s fear that growers might continue tapping into the QESCO power system post-solarization, undermining the intended benefits of the switch to solar energy.

Federal officials underscored the necessity of establishing a concrete mechanism to prevent landowners from using QESCO power once their tube wells are solarized.

Minister of State Ali Pervez Malik and Secretary Power Division Rashid Mehmood called on the provincial government and growers to develop a robust plan addressing these issues before proceeding with the solar transition.

The Balochistan government requested additional time to devise a comprehensive solution. Chief Minister Bugti assured that an effective resolution would be reached through consultations with landowners and stakeholders, expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Sharif for facilitating the dialogue.

Bugti reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the federal government’s concerns through cooperative efforts. Federal representatives welcomed his proposals, agreeing that all aspects of the solar energy transition would be tackled through joint consultations.