The Gwadar Coal–Power Plant represents a 300-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power facility situated in Gwadar, Balochistan, Pakistan. This power plant stands as a significant energy initiative within the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The primary objective of this undertaking is to enhance the dependability of the indigenous power grid, thereby addressing the challenges faced in present economic advancement and urban development within the Gwadar region.
| Gwadar Coal–Power Plant | |
|---|---|
| Country | Pakistan |
| Location | Gwadar, Balochistan |
| Status | Operational |
| Commission date | 2023 (expected) |
| Thermal power station | |
| Primary fuel | Coal |
| Power generation | |
| Nameplate capacity | 300 MW |
Project details edit
The power plant is projected to meet the energy demands of approximately 150,000 residents in the Gwadar region by the conclusion of 2023, aligning with the 2050 Master Plan of Gwadar. Former Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal granted approval for this initiative and set a completion target for January 2025.[1] The power plant holds immense importance in strengthening energy collaboration between China and Pakistan, advancing the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing the power infrastructure in Balochistan, and propelling economic growth in the Gwadar Port locality.[2][3][4][5]
Controversies edit
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has expressed concerns about relying exclusively on imported coal for power generation at the 300MW Gwadar coal-fired power plant. Nepra raised multiple inquiries about the decision to utilize solely imported coal instead of considering indigenous or Thar coal for the 300 MW Gwadar coal-based power facility.[6] However, it was clarified that both the Prime Minister and the Planning Commission had instructed to proceed with the installation of the Gwadar coal-fired plant using imported coal.[7]
References edit
- ^ "Ahsan for completing 300MW coal-fired power project in Gwadar by Jan 2025". The Nation. January 4, 2023.
- ^ "Gwadar's 300MW coal power plant to end energy scarcity by 2023". The Nation. May 30, 2022.
- ^ "Gwadar's 300MW coal power plant to end energy scarcity by 2023". The Express Tribune. May 15, 2022.
- ^ "Gwadar's 300 MW coal power plant to end energy scarcity by Oct 2023". www.radio.gov.pk.
- ^ "300 mw Gwadar power plant to start functioning by 2023". July 24, 2022.
- ^ "Nepra questions use of only imported coal for power generation from 300MW Gwadar plant". The Nation. June 13, 2023.
- ^ Ghumman, Mushtaq (November 14, 2022). "300MW Gwadar plant: CPPCL unwilling to shift to Thar coal". Brecorder.