Karachi: Provincial Minister for Energy, Planning, and Development Syed Nasir Shah announced an ambitious plan to transform the electricity infrastructure in Sindh, aiming to provide affordable energy solutions to millions. The initiative, unveiled during an energy dialogue organized by The Knowledge Forum and NAD University of Energy and Technology, includes the distribution of 200,000 solar packages to low-consumption households, benefiting over 2 million people in K Electric, HISCO, and SEPCO areas.

According to Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), the provincial government’s alternative energy program also involves the development of solar, wind, and hybrid power projects through public-private partnerships. Notably, a 400 MW solar park with grid integration is expected to be operational in two years. The Sindh government is also taking steps to solarize public sector buildings, with plans to extend this to hospitals and schools. Financially, the program is set to generate $49 million in carbon credits, aided by a 30-year loan from the World Bank to support the renewable transition.

In addition to these efforts, Sindh Provincial Assembly member Marvi Rashidi highlighted the need for improved energy storage and smart grid technology to address coastal erosion and infrastructure gaps. Environmental concerns were also raised regarding coal mining’s impact on water resources, with recommendations for leased land use for mining and power plants to mitigate long-term effects. Experts emphasized the necessity of a reliable national grid and a comprehensive policy for alternative energy sources to tackle ongoing energy challenges in the province.