Balochistan govt reviews off-grid power projects to expand electricity access

QUETTA, Jun 03 (APP): Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti chaired a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister Secretariat to review projects aimed at improving electricity supply and transmission in the province’s remote and underdeveloped areas.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Zahid Saleem, Secretary Energy Asfandyar Kakar, QESCO Syed Yousaf Shah, and other officials.

During the session, the Energy Department presented proposals for sustainable, uninterrupted, and low-cost electricity supply to far-flung regions.

Officials highlighted that Balochistan’s vast geography and scattered population make traditional long transmission lines and complex infrastructure both costly and technically challenging. As a solution, mini power stations and off-grid energy projects were identified as more effective and feasible.

The briefing revealed that after encouraging results from pilot projects, the government is now assessing the potential to establish off-grid power stations in 17 districts. These projects aim to provide affordable and reliable electricity to areas not connected to the national grid or facing persistent supply issues.

Additionally, a plan was presented to strengthen transmission systems in on-grid areas. To ensure swift progress, it was decided to accelerate work on the regulatory framework, including tariff determination and legal procedures, in close coordination with NEPRA and other relevant institutions.

Sarfraz Bugti directed that the on-grid station policy be finalized soon with input from all stakeholders. He stressed that the provincial government is committed to delivering affordable, sustainable, and uninterrupted electricity to the people of Balochistan. He added that modern, localized, and sustainable energy solutions are being adopted to integrate remote areas into the national development stream.

The Chief Minister emphasized that these energy projects will not only meet basic needs but also boost economic activity, job creation, and investment in the province. He reaffirmed that providing basic facilities to every citizen is both a constitutional and moral responsibility of the government, and all available resources will be utilized to achieve this goal.

Sarfraz Bugti said that through energy sector reforms, modern planning, and promotion of alternative energy sources, the long-standing deprivation of Balochistan’s remote areas will be addressed, ensuring equal opportunities for development and prosperity.