K-Electric plans to double Pakistan’s solar capacity

K-Electric Ltd., Karachi’s primary power utility, is set to nearly double Pakistan’s solar energy capacity by adding 640 megawatts (MW) of clean energy to its portfolio within the next two years, according to Chief Strategy Officer Shahab Qader Khan.

The bidding process for the first projects begins on August 19, with plans to include 200 MW of hybrid solar-wind generation.

Pakistan’s reliance on costly fossil fuel imports has driven electricity prices skywards, with monthly bills increasing by 155 per cent since 2021.

By expanding its solar capacity, currently at 1 per cent with 630 MW, K-Electric aims to help reduce the nation’s import bill and high power costs.

Over the next five years, the utility plans to add 1,200 MW of renewable energy projects while reducing dependence on expensive fuels like liquefied natural gas and fuel oil.

Attribution: Bloomberg

Subediting: M. S. Salama