Waqas ul Haq, Sales Head, Powerzone Karachi, discusses Pakistan’s evolving power market, citing decades-long energy crises, rising demand for generators, solar with storage, and AI-driven solutions to sustain industries amid supply shortages.
New Energy Solutions and the Industry
We have everything, but utilization still lags behind. The energy crisis is nothing new; it has continued for nearly three decades.
Our primary option remains K-Electric and WAPDA’s supply. Because of this crisis, alternative solutions like generators are essential, and we specialize in diesel generators. The maximum demand comes from industry, which relies on them as backup power.
We work with Cummins in Pakistan, as well as an Italian brand, for which we are sole proprietors, and also with Perkins.
Our company has been in this business for the past 20 years. Beyond utilities and generators, solar is the next viable option. Solar works well if there is sufficient sunlight and backup through a battery energy storage system. We have signed a contract with a Chinese company to serve as their representative across Pakistan. Energy storage is critical to ensure there are no lapses in the production process.
Our system works within 0.2 ms, giving industries time to switch over to generators. This battery storage system is charged by solar power, which provides cheaper electricity. In many ways, it functions like a large UPS system — but unlike a UPS that requires conventional electricity to charge, this one uses solar supply. This makes solar a one-time investment.
The minimum system starts at 5 kW, making it both practical and useful for factories as well as houses. For industrial use, a 20 ft container provides up to 3.34 MW. The industry is convinced this system will ensure an uninterrupted production process.
Climate Change & Battery.
The shelf life of a solar system is around 20 years. One challenge will be how to decommission systems once they expire, though I am confident the industry will find safe disposal solutions.
We use lithium batteries with the system, and for safety, we ensure an IP60 rating — making them both water- and fire-proof. Each system also has its own cooling mechanism installed.
Powerzone: Two Decades in the Business
Beyond generators, what else do we offer? Our core products remain diesel generators from Cummins, Perkins, and others. We also deal in gas-powered products through a contract with Siemens. However, due to the shortage of gas, even Siemens is awaiting supply replenishment in Pakistan.
Additionally, we provide Turkish lifts, which are already in use in the country. While there is competition from Chinese products, our technology is European, offering higher standards.
AI and Power Systems
AI has transformed every sector, and energy is no exception. Various AI tools are already in use and will influence the market even more in the future. We have introduced new smart panels through our contract with Data Com, enabling remote operation from anywhere. This gives users multiple options to control systems via AI.
Karachi & the Power Business
We have continuously participated in the IEEEP exhibition. For the last 8–9 years, we have seen every major player in the power business and industry come together. Karachi remains the hub of the country, attracting visitors from across Pakistan. It provides a great opportunity for networking and business growth once again.
