ECNEC greenlights 100MW solar project for Gilgit-Baltistan

The Executive Committee approves 100MW solar power project to be implemented across Gilgit-Baltistan’s districts

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The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Saturday approved a 100-megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant project for Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), days after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the initiative.

During his recent visit to G-B earlier this week, the premier unveiled a Rs4 billion relief package for the flood-affected region, along with plans for the solar energy project and the establishment of a Danish School for underprivileged children.

Following ECNEC’s green light, formal work on the power project is expected to begin immediately. The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) had already cleared the plan ahead of ECNEC’s approval.

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The solar project will be implemented across multiple districts, including Astore, Darel, Tangir, Diamer, Ghanche, Ghizer, Gilgit, Hunza, Ishkoman, Nagar, Rondu, Skardu, and Shigar.

Implementation will take place in three phases. In the first phase, Skardu will receive 18.958 megawatts of electricity. The second phase will provide 6.005MW to Hunza, 28.013MW to Gilgit, and 13.126MW to Diamer. The remaining districts will get 16.096MW in the final phase.

Additionally, the project will deliver 18.162 megawatts of off-grid solar power to hospitals and government offices in the region, easing the burden on existing infrastructure.

With a total estimated cost of Rs24.957 billion, the solar power initiative is expected to be completed within three years. Officials say the project will help bridge the energy gap in the remote northern region and support essential public services.