ISLAMABAD: Energy China has announced the long-awaited 700 megawatt Azad Pattan hydropower project is set to begin construction after successfully completing its feasibility study and land acquisition, according to Wang Huihua, Managing Director of China Energy Int’l Group’s Pakistan Branch at NUST University’s conference ‘Pakistan Energy Sector Landscape: Challenges & Opportunities’ in Islamabad.
With an eye towards providing affordable and clean energy to Pakistan, Wang highlighted the remarkable progress made over the last six years in developing this hydropower project. He expressed hope that government would prioritize its inclusion in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), thus hastening financial closure of this undertaking.
Wang underscored the financial viability of investing in renewable energy in Pakistan and confirmed Energy China’s long-term commitments and increased investments there. Pakistan holds a special place in their investment portfolio and they remain dedicated to its development, according to him.
Wang also pointed to Energy China’s two decade long presence in Pakistan and noted the country as one of their preferred investment locations, further solidifying a mutually beneficial partnership between China and Pakistan in energy related issues.
Recognizing the difficulties foreign investors encounter when investing in Pakistan, Wang emphasized the significance of quickly addressing any related issues to create an ideal environment for win-win cooperation.
Pakistan has reached an important milestone on its path towards energy sustainability with the announcement that Azad Pattan hydropower project is ready for construction, marking an important step toward meeting its energy requirements while contributing to economic development and environmental conservation initiatives. If implemented successfully, it will not only meet Pakistan’s energy demands but will also support economic development and environmental protection measures.
