In a groundbreaking development, Pakistan has launched its first and one of the world’s largest floating solar energy projects with a capacity of 550 megawatts in Sindh. The project, which promises to deliver affordable and sustainable electricity, aligns with the vision of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto, according to Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah.
The announcement was made during a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between the Sindh Department of Energy and Go Energy (Private) Limited on Thursday. The project is located on Kinjhar Lake, and the ceremony saw attendance from key figures, including Secretary Energy Musaddiq Ahmed Khan, STDC CEO Salim Shaikh, Go Green CEO Amar Ali Talat, and K-Electric Director Haris Siddiqui.
Minister Syed Nasir Shah emphasized that the project is a collaboration between Go Energy, the Sindh Transmission and Dispatch Company (STDC), the Sindh Energy Department, and the Sindh Irrigation Department. The STDC will construct a 220kV transmission line stretching approximately 60 kilometers to the K-Electric grid station in Dhabeji, Karachi. K-Electric has already issued a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the project, which highlights its commitment to being the primary off-taker of the generated electricity.
The innovative floating solar project is environmentally beneficial, as it not only conserves water by reducing evaporation but also supports aquatic life. By promoting green energy, the project aims to provide affordable electricity while conserving land and protecting the environment. Additionally, it is expected to stimulate Sindh’s economy through job creation.
Minister Nasir Shah reiterated the Sindh government’s dedication to accelerating the adoption of renewable resources to lower the overall energy tariff set by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), making electricity more affordable for the public. The initiative also aligns with sustainable development goals, aiming for completion by the end of 2026.
Secretary Energy Musaddiq Ahmad Khan highlighted ongoing efforts to provide cheap and sustainable electricity, noting that mini-grid stations are planned to deliver power to remote areas in Sindh. The floating solar plant is expected to generate electricity at a cost of Rs. 15 per unit, significantly lower than traditional power sources.
STDC CEO Salim Shaikh assured that STDC’s transmission lines, with minimal losses, have proven reliable compared to K-Electric. Go Energy CEO Amar Ali Talat praised the project as a unique initiative, noting that it will help preserve Kinjhar Lake’s water levels and received support from experts in Singapore. He expressed gratitude to all contributors involved in the project’s development.
The signing of the MoU by STDC CEO Saleem Sheikh and Go Green Energy CEO Amar Ali Talat marks a significant step toward achieving a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for Pakistan.
