LAHORE — Punjab Energy Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar chaired a high-level meeting to review proposals aimed at promoting affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions to support industrial growth in the province.
The meeting, held at the Energy Department following the formation of sub-committees under the Economic Transformation Committee, focused on projects designed to improve electricity access and reduce costs for industries across Punjab.
Focus on sustainable and affordable energy
Addressing officials, the minister said a cost-effective and sustainable energy system is critical for industrial development and economic growth.
He emphasized that the provincial government plans to introduce reforms by adopting modern and environmentally friendly technologies to ensure affordable electricity for industries.
He also highlighted the potential of waste-to-energy projects, noting their dual role in generating alternative energy and addressing urban waste management challenges.
Key proposals under review
Officials presented three major proposals aimed at transforming the energy sector.
The first proposal focused on expanding off-grid power generation through solar, waste-to-energy, and hydropower projects. Authorities said around 30 potential sites for waste-to-energy projects have been identified across Punjab, including major cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Sialkot.
The second proposal involved using solar energy through wheeling to supply power to WASA Punjab and the Lahore Orange Line Metro Train. A 150MW solar power project at Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park is proposed, expected to generate approximately 300 million units annually.
The third proposal addressed electricity supply for industrial zones, where demand is projected to increase by 307MW by 2030. Officials discussed installing localized solar plants connected to industrial grids to reduce electricity costs.
Implementation and next steps
The minister directed relevant departments to take practical steps for early implementation of solar, hydropower, and waste-to-energy projects and to prepare a final plan for execution.
Senior officials, including Secretary Energy Dr Farrukh Naveed and representatives from key energy institutions, attended the meeting and presented technical and financial details of the proposals.
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