ADB Assistance for Power Distribution Projects in Pakistan

on 22/11/2024

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide assistance of Rs 51.562 billion to Pakistan for power distribution strengthening, as well as the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of Asset Performance Monitoring Systems (APMS) and installation of AMR/AMI meters in three ex-WAPDA Distribution Companies.
The Central Development Working Party (CDWP), which met under the chairmanship of Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (PDSI) and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Ahsan Iqbal, has approved three development projects in the energy sector worth Rs 58.857 billion. The project related to power distribution strengthening in the Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO), valued at Rs 9.014 billion, was recommended to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further consideration. The project is proposed to be financed through the ADB. It involves converting four 66 kV grid stations into 132 kV grid stations, installing 50,000 AMR meters on 3-phase meters with loads greater than 5 kW, installing APMS on 1,200 general-duty distribution transformers (DTs) in SEPCO, and bifurcating 40 feeders with loads above 300 amps and high technical and administrative losses.
The second project, the power distribution strengthening project for Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), valued at Rs 27.613 billion, was also recommended to ECNEC for further consideration. This project is proposed to be financed through ADB (Rs 20.317 billion) and LESCO’s own resources (Rs 7.296 billion). It includes the construction of five new 132 kV grid stations, four augmentations or extensions of existing 132 kV grid stations, the installation of 1,600 APMS, 1,328 km of aerial bundled (AB) cable, and 131,901 AMI/AMR meters within LESCO’s jurisdiction.
The third project, the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of APMS for 100 kVA and 200 kVA general-duty distribution transformers and deployment of AMI meters in Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), is valued at Rs 22.230 billion. This project was also recommended to ECNEC for further consideration and is proposed to be financed through ADB. It involves the installation of 13,323 APMS and 150,000 AMI meters within MEPCO’s jurisdiction. The APMS system will provide real-time access to 100 kVA and 200 kVA distribution transformers (DTs), enhancing visibility, close monitoring, and preventive actions. In addition to APMS, the AMI meters will enable two-way communication between utilities and consumers, allowing remote meter reading, real-time data monitoring, and proactive management of energy distribution.
During the meeting, the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission directed the Power Division to review the scope of the projects based on techno-economic feasibility, in consultation with all concerned experts and stakeholders. He further directed that an updated version, incorporating these reviews, should be resubmitted for consideration by ECNEC. In principle, the project was approved for strengthening the distribution network and exploring financing from ADB by the Economic Affairs Division (EAD).

Creative Uses of Solar Energy Not Just for Producing Electricity

on 22/11/2024

Beyond its conventional use in electricity generation, solar energy has sparked a wide range of inventive applications that harness the sun’s energy for various purposes. One such creative application is solar water heaters, which use sunlight to heat water for commercial, industrial, and domestic use. These systems provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional water heating methods, typically involving the collection of sunlight and a heat exchanger. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, solar water heaters contribute to environmental sustainability and energy savings.
Another innovative use of solar energy is solar cooking, which promotes sustainable and environmentally friendly food preparation methods. With solar cookers, food is heated and cooked using sunlight instead of conventional burners or ovens. From basic box cookers to more sophisticated parabolic reflectors, these devices come in various shapes and sizes. Since solar cooking uses less energy than traditional methods, it is an excellent option for populations living in sunny regions, as well as for outdoor enthusiasts.
Solar-powered greenhouses showcase how agriculture and solar power can work together. These systems harness solar radiation to generate electricity for lighting, irrigation, and climate control. By optimizing growing conditions, solar-powered greenhouses can extend growing seasons and increase agricultural productivity. Using solar energy in greenhouse operations supports sustainable farming practices, aligning with the broader goal of reducing the environmental impact of food production.
To address the problem of water scarcity, solar desalination uses solar energy to convert brackish or saltwater into freshwater. In areas where water is scarce, solar desalination systems provide clean water by utilizing sunshine to power distillation or reverse osmosis processes. With its sustainable approach to meeting basic water needs, this application is particularly valuable in remote and arid regions where conventional water supplies are limited.
Another key demonstration of solar energy’s versatility is its use in solar-powered air conditioning systems. These systems harness solar energy to power vapor-compression or absorption cooling processes, providing air conditioning without relying on traditional electricity. In addition to promoting energy conservation and environmental preservation, solar air conditioning also helps reduce the strain on the electrical grid during periods of high demand.
Beyond conventional electric vehicles, solar-powered mobility is an emerging field. Photovoltaic cells convert solar energy into electricity for propulsion in solar-powered vehicles, boats, and even airplanes. These innovations demonstrate how solar energy has the potential to revolutionize transportation by offering environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars, even though they are still in the early stages of development.
Another sustainable solution is the use of solar-powered water pumps for agricultural irrigation and water delivery. These pumps harness solar energy to lift water for livestock and irrigation from wells, rivers, or other sources. Solar water pumps are especially valuable in remote and off-grid areas with limited access to conventional energy. This application promotes sustainable water management and enhances agricultural resilience.
Solar-powered waste compactors offer a creative approach to waste management in cities. By compressing waste into bins using electricity generated by solar panels, these compactors reduce collection frequency and minimize emissions associated with waste transportation. In urban areas, where effective waste disposal is an increasing concern, solar-powered waste compactors contribute to cleaner, more sustainable waste management practices.
Education about the environment is supported by solar-powered educational resources, including solar-powered learning kits and calculators. These teaching tools demonstrate the fundamentals of renewable energy to students by generating power through the use of solar cells. Educational resources that operate on solar power help young people develop sustainable habits and a sense of environmental responsibility. Solar-powered art pieces showcase how solar energy can be creatively integrated into public spaces, combining sustainability with aesthetics. Designers and artists use solar panels to power light installations, interactive sculptures, and other works of art. These installations foster a respect for clean energy and highlight the fusion of art and technology by offering a visual representation of the possibilities presented by renewable energy sources.
In rural or disaster-affected locations, the problem of supplying safe and clean drinking water is addressed via solar-powered water filtration devices. These systems run water purification technologies including UV disinfection and sophisticated filtration on solar energy. In areas without conventional infrastructure, solar-powered water filtration provides a decentralized and sustainable means of guaranteeing access to clean drinking water. Off-grid charging is possible with solar-powered communication devices like radios and cell phone chargers. To enable customers to charge their electronic gadgets in isolated areas or during emergencies, these devices use solar panels to turn sunshine into power. Solar-powered communication devices demonstrate the useful uses of solar energy beyond conventional power generation. They improve connectivity and disaster preparedness. Beyond just producing electricity, solar energy may be creatively applied to a wide range of industries and purposes. These creative applications highlight the adaptability and diversity of solar energy, ranging from cooking and water heating to agriculture, transportation, art, and communication. With the ongoing advancement of technology, there will probably be more innovative ways to incorporate solar energy into everyday life, which will lead to a future that is more ecologically sensitive and sustainable.n

K-Electric’s Bin Qasim Power Station II Recognized for Excellence at Asian Power Awards

on 22/11/2024

K-Electric’s 560MW Bin Qasim Power Station II (BQPS-II) was recognized with two awards on the global stage at the Asian Power Awards 2024. The privatized utility secured accolades in two categories: Gas Power Project of the Year – Pakistan and Power Plant Upgrade of the Year – Pakistan. The infrastructure upgrades in the project enhance the availability and reliability of the high-efficiency power plant, which was inducted into KE’s generation fleet as part of the USD 4 billion investment across the value chain post-privatization.
The company modified the infrastructure of the project to enable the use of RLNG as a secondary fuel while also reducing auxiliary load requirements. As a result, the plant’s net efficiency has improved, leading to increased operational flexibility to meet the growing demands of the metropolis. These advancements highlight BQPS-II’s role as a leader in the power generation sector and provide a model for sustainable and resilient energy solutions in Pakistan.
The Asian Power Awards are among the most prestigious recognitions in the energy industry, honoring organizations that have implemented innovative and transformative solutions to meet the growing demand for energy while addressing sustainability. KE’s success ranks alongside leading international players such as the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and China Resources Power Holding Company Limited, which serves China with approximately 80GW of electricity. KE’s success at this event underscores its position as a forward-thinking energy provider, leading the way with advanced technological solutions that deliver tangible benefits to both customers and the environment.
KE’s leadership in embracing cutting-edge technologies has been instrumental in modernizing its operations. The company recently received NEPRA’s decision on its generation tariff petition for the control period post-2023. While the determination will not affect rates charged to customers, it is a significant milestone for the utility toward realizing its USD 2 billion investment plan through 2030. Additionally, the company recently concluded the competitive bidding process for 640MW of renewable energy projects in Balochistan and Sindh, which received the country’s lowest tariff bid for RE generation. These projects are part of KE’s Power Acquisition Program (PAP), which envisions adding 1,300 MW of renewable energy to further drive sustainability in its power production capabilities.
Commenting on the prestigious recognition, Abbas Husain, Chief Generation & Transmission Officer at K-Electric, shared, “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside notable international power sector players. We continue to explore ways to push the envelope of innovation, adapting to ensure a reliable and economical power supply for customers. While the cost of electricity charged to customers is a federal subject, we want to leverage our resources to bring in more efficiency, reduce the cost of production, and enhance the available electricity supply. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in power generation and distribution.”

Pakistan Cables Pledges Support to World Wide Fund for Mangrove Plantation

on 22/11/2024

Pakistan Cables Limited pledged to support the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in its ongoing efforts for mangrove plantations. To kick off the plantation, the Pakistan Cables employees volunteered to participate in the mangrove plantation activity at WWF Wetland Centre, Karachi.
The Company will support the plantation of 1,000 mangroves at a designated WWF site in Somyani. Through the collaboration, Pakistan Cables reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation. The plantation drive reflects Pakistan Cables’ broader environmental goals, which include reducing carbon emissions and promoting green initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility agenda. The Company’s carbon emission reduction targets were approved and validated by SBTi in 2023.
Founded in 1953, Pakistan Cables is the premiere and most reputable cable manufacturer in Pakistan. It is the first and oldest wires and cable manufacturer listed on the PSX since 1955. It is also a member company of the Amir S. Chinoy (ASC) group. The company has the largest geographical footprint in Pakistan with a presence in over 180 cities. It is ISO9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 AND OHSAS 18001:2007 certified and various cable types tested by KEMA, Netherlands. Pakistan Cables is the only building material company in Pakistan that has its carbon emission reduction targets approved and validated by SBTi. To learn more about Pakistan Cables Ltd.
Operational since 1970, WWF-Pakistan has grown from a small group of wildlife enthusiasts to the country’s largest environmental organization. Today, we are part of an international network, established in 1961, which has an active presence in over 100 countries across five continents, and has the support of five million people.
As we have evolved, our focus has broadened from localized efforts and individual habitats and species to an ambitious strategy that is protecting freshwater resources, securing our oceans, restoring and protecting vulnerable forests, transforming food and markets, protecting threatened wildlife and habitats, tackling climate change, and putting sustainability at the forefront in linear infrastructure development.

CDWP Approves Key Development Projects, Including Flood Response Housing and Health Initiatives

on 22/11/2024

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) recently approved a significant package of development projects totaling Rs 559.766 billion. Among the approved projects was the Flood Response Emergency Housing Project Phase-I, valued at Rs 447 billion. This project, which is set to be financed by the World Bank, was recommended to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further approval.
The CDWP meeting, which was the first-ever paperless session, was chaired by Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (PDSI) Ahsan Iqbal, who is also the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. During this meeting, three projects totaling Rs 8.23 billion were approved, while four major projects worth Rs 551.536 billion were forwarded to ECNEC for further review.
The agenda of the meeting covered projects in various sectors, including health, manpower, physical planning and housing, transportation, and science and technology.
Key Approved Projects
Flood Response Emergency Housing Project Phase-I (2nd Revision)
This project, worth Rs 447 billion, focuses on providing support to flood-affected communities in Sindh province, following the catastrophic floods of 2022. The project aims to help affected residents rebuild their homes and restore critical infrastructure, including water supply systems, sanitation, drainage, roads, and street pavements. It also includes the construction of communal toilets and protection works, with the World Bank providing financing.
Health Sector Initiatives
Several health-related projects were approved or recommended for further consideration:
Improvement of Maternal and Child Health Equipment in flood-affected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, valued at Rs 3.15 billion, was approved.
Prime Minister’s Program for the Elimination of Hepatitis C (Rs 67.77 billion) was recommended to ECNEC. This ambitious initiative aims to screen, test, and treat 50% of Pakistan’s eligible population (82.5 million people aged 12 and above). The program will use rapid screening tests, PCR testing, and a 12-week oral treatment regimen.
Prime Minister’s Program for Prevention and Control of Diabetes Mellitus, valued at Rs 6.8 billion, was also approved. The project focuses on raising awareness, providing diagnostic tools, and offering treatment through public health centers. It will be launched in federal areas in its first year, with a goal of nationwide implementation after securing provincial support.
Manpower Sector
Balochistan Youth Internship Program (Rs 1.82 billion) was approved as part of the post-flood reconstruction and resilience enhancement efforts in Balochistan. This program aims to provide skills training and employment opportunities for youth in the province.
Science and Technology
The Establishment of the Institute of Petroleum Technology (Revised) project, valued at Rs 3.27 billion, was approved to support the development of advanced petroleum-related technologies.
Transport and Communication
The CAREC Corridor Development Investment Program (Tranche-I), which includes the rehabilitation and construction of roads in various regions, was recommended to ECNEC. The project, worth Rs 29.97 billion, will be partly financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with additional funding from the Government of Sindh and the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP). The project includes roadworks, bridges, underpasses, culverts, drainage systems, and other essential infrastructure.
The CDWP’s approval of these projects marks a significant step forward in addressing the country’s pressing development needs, particularly in the aftermath of the 2022 floods. With substantial funding from both domestic and international sources, these initiatives aim to strengthen Pakistan’s infrastructure, healthcare, and resilience to future disasters.