ISLAMABAD: The Government of Balochistan has urged the federal government to expedite the approval of K-Electric's 150 MW renewable energy projects planned for the province.

These projects, part of a broader 640 MW initiative across Sindh and Balochistan, have been approved by NEPRA in early 2024. K-Electric completed the competitive bidding process for these projects, which include the flagship 150 MW Winder and Bela solar projects, which have been under development since 2020.

The provincial government views the 150 MW solar projects as vital for addressing Balochistan's increasing power demands while also offering key benefits, including job creation, industrial development, and support for the agricultural sector. As such, the provincial authorities have called on the Power Division and NEPRA to fast-track the approval process, especially the evaluation reports for the Winder and Bela projects. K-Electric has submitted the bid evaluation reports to NEPRA for approval, but the decision is still pending.

The Request for Proposal (RFP) for these projects was approved in February and March 2024. These projects, part of the approved Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) 2022 and K-Electric's Power Acquisition Program (PAP), are expected to bring significant benefits, including reducing Pakistan's reliance on imported fuels, saving approximately Rs 13 billion annually and $87 million in foreign exchange. While KE appreciates Balochistan's support, including land allocation for the solar projects, delays in approval due to ongoing optimization within the IGCEP 2024 could jeopardize the projects' timelines.

K-Electric has urged the provincial government and relevant authorities to advocate for the swift approval of these crucial renewable energy projects to ensure their timely completion and benefits to the region and the country.