CM inaugurates biomass steam plant

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Sunday digitally inaugurated a state-of-the-art biomass steam plant in Sheikhupura, describing it as a significant step towards environmental sustainability, circular economy and renewable energy.

Constructed with an investment of $4.5 million, the plant will use around 72,000 tonnes of agricultural residue annually as fuel, providing an environment friendly and sustainable alternative to stubble burning.

According to officials, it will generate 30 tonnes of steam per hour, resulting in annual fuel cost savings of $2.15 million. It is also expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 24,345 tonnes per year, while helping improve air quality by discouraging the open burning of agricultural waste.

The chief minister said the biomass steam plant represented a notable example of Pakistan's commitment to the circular economy and renewable energy.

She said the project was aligned with Punjab government's priorities of environmental protection, clean air and sustainable industrial development. She reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to supporting climate improvement initiatives, adding that its doors remained open to all organisations working towards environmental sustainability.