K-Electric's 5-year power acquisition plan approved by Nepra

• KE submitted program last year for fiscal years 2024-2028.
• PAP aims to enhance reliability, sustainability of power supply. 
• KE's plan also focuses on the integration of renewable energy.

ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) Monday gave its approval to K-Electric's five-year Power Acquisition Program (PAP) which aims to enhance the reliability and sustainability of power supply in Karachi.

The utility submitted its program last year in March for the fiscal years 2024-2028. It seeks to provide a stable power supply by integrating renewable energy, local fuel, and power off-take from the national grid.

The plan focuses on the integration of renewable energy as KE aims to add 1,282 MW of renewable energy, including solar and wind projects, to its generation mix by 2030.

It also includes a 270 MW solar PV project in Karachi and a 200 MW hybrid plant near the Dhabeji Grid Station.

These projects are expected to significantly contribute to the city's energy mix, promoting sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint, the utility said in a statement.

KE CEO Moonis Alvi, speaking about the program, said: "We welcome the decision by Nepra on our Power Acquisition Program, providing us a clear roadmap for the next five years."

"Integrating clean energy is vital to driving a sustainable energy ecosystem, balancing affordability with reliability. Over the past few months, we have been garnering a great deal of global interest in our 640 MW renewable energy projects, which indicates the repute that KE enjoys as a brand. This decision enables us to invest in innovative, sustainable technologies, ultimately contributing to the betterment of Karachi and ensuring a brighter future for its residents.”

According to a The News report, the PAP also includes capacity additions using local fuel, which will diversify the energy mix and reduce reliance on imported fuels.

Furthermore, KE's agreements to import additional power from the national grid are expected to improve grid utilisation, benefiting regulated consumers and the sector at large.