Pakistan’s Sindh province is making a major push for clean and affordable electricity with the launch of its first, and the world’s one of the largest, 550MW floating solar energy project. Situated on Keenjhar Lake, the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 and is seen as a significant milestone by Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah. Shah pointed out that the project aligns with the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto for making electricity more affordable.
This innovative project offers several advantages beyond just power generation. The floating solar panels will help reduce water evaporation from the lake, which will benefit aquatic life. Additionally, it promotes land conservation and contributes to Sindh’s green energy goals. The project is also expected to create jobs and boost the provincial economy. Minister Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to utilizing renewable resources at a faster pace to achieve sustainable development goals and provide clean, reliable energy.
Officials are optimistic about the project’s impact on electricity prices. Secretary Energy Musaddiq Ahmed Khan estimates that the cost of electricity generated from this floating plant will be Rs.15 per unit, significantly lower than traditional power generation methods. This cost reduction aims to lessen the overall electricity burden for Pakistani citizens.
The project is a collaborative effort between the Sindh Energy Department, Go Energy Private Limited, and Sindh Irrigation Department. STDC (Sindh Transmission and Dispatch Company) will lay a dedicated 220 kV transmission line to connect the project to K-Electric’s grid station in Karachi. K-Electric has signed a Letter of Intent to be the off-taker for the generated power.
Go Green Energy CEO Amar Ali Talat highlighted the project’s unique character, mentioning studies conducted by Singaporean experts. These studies suggest the project could prevent the evaporation of a quarter of the lake’s water.
This groundbreaking project in Sindh marks a significant step towards Pakistan’s clean energy future, promising both environmental and economic benefits for the nation.
