China approves power projects, PM pleased

ISLAMABAD: 

The Chinese government has approved 14 power projects that have the ability generate 10,400 megawatts (MW) of electricity immediately, while a few more projects, with a combined generation capacity of 6,445MW, would be completed in the second phase.    

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif congratulated the energy and economic teams on obtaining approval of the Chinese government for the projects.  Among the ones approved include Port Qasim (coal) that would generate 1,320MW, Sukki Kanari (hydropower) 870 MW, Sahiwal (coal) 1,320 MW, Engro Thar (coal) 660 MW, Muzaffargarh (coal) 1,320 MW, Gwadar (coal) 300MW, Quaid-i-Azam Solar Park 1,000MW, United Energy (wind) 100MW, Dawood (wind) 50MW, Sachal (wind) 50MW, Sunnec (wind)50MW, Rahim Yar Khan (coal) 1,320 MW, SSRL Thar (coal) 1,320 MW and Karot (hydropower) 720 MW.

These projects will be started immediately and put into operation by 2017-2018. In addition, there are a few other projects, totalling 6,445 MW, which would be completed in the second phase.

“This gesture of the Chinese government manifests the deep cordial relations the country has with Pakistan and shows the confidence of the international community in government’s policies,” said the prime minister. He expressed his pleasure at the MoUs Pakistan had signed with China in the recent past and were now close to fruition.

He expressed confidence that this massive addition to power sector of the country would prove immensely beneficial in overcoming the electricity shortage. “This is part of the government’s energy road map which aims at ensuring provision of cost-effective electricity to the masses.  These are the fruits of democracy which have started reaching the people.