The 1320MW Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant has once again demonstrated its operational excellence by successfully completing its Annual Capacity Test (ACT), achieving a generation capacity higher than its originally designated capacity. The accomplishment reflects the plant’s high standards of operation, robust maintenance practices, and the unwavering commitment of its engineering and operational teams.
Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant surpasses designated capacity in successful annual capacity test
ISLAMABAD, Aug 6 (APP): The 1320MW Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant has once again demonstrated its operational excellence by successfully completing its Annual Capacity Test (ACT), achieving a generation capacity higher than its originally designated capacity. The accomplishment reflects the plant’s high standards of operation, robust maintenance practices, and the unwavering commitment of its engineering and operational teams.
The Annual Capacity Test was conducted in coordination with the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO), Central Power Purchasing Agency Guarantee Limited (CPPA-G), National Grid Company (NGC), and other relevant stakeholders to verify the plant’s dependable generating capability in accordance with the provisions of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
During the test, the Main Metering System recorded an available generation capacity of 1246.500 MW, while the Backup Metering System recorded 1247.137 MW. Both results exceeded the plant’s original designated capacity of 1243.517 MW, underscoring the exceptional condition and sustained performance of the generating units nearly a decade after the plant commenced commercial operations.
Senior officials from ISMO, CPPA-G and NGC witnessed the successful execution of the test and appreciated the Sahiwal Power Plant’s outstanding operational performance. They commended the plant for consistently maintaining high reliability, availability and dependable generation since achieving Commercial Operation Date (COD) in 2017, recognizing it as one of Pakistan’s most efficiently operated base load power stations.
The Annual Capacity Test serves as the official benchmark for determining a power plant’s dependable generating capability. Achieving a capacity above the original designated level is a significant milestone that reflects effective maintenance planning, sound engineering practices, and continuous performance optimization by the plant’s technical teams.
The test was carried out under the supervision of representatives of the relevant power sector organizations, with all operational parameters closely monitored to ensure full compliance with contractual and technical requirements. Its smooth execution highlighted the excellent coordination among the operations, maintenance, electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, chemistry, fuel handling, safety, commercial, and management departments.
The successful completion of the test comes at a time when Pakistan’s electricity demand profile is evolving rapidly due to increasing solar power generation, making the scheduling of capacity tests more challenging. Despite these operational constraints, the Sahiwal Power Plant successfully completed the exercise through close coordination with national grid authorities and strict adherence to operational procedures.
Since entering commercial operation in 2017, the Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant has remained one of the country’s most dependable and efficient thermal power stations. Strategically located near Pakistan’s major load centre, the plant plays a vital role in maintaining grid stability and ensuring a reliable electricity supply to the national transmission system. Its state-of-the-art supercritical technology delivers high efficiency while meeting stringent environmental standards.
The latest Annual Capacity Test further reinforces the plant’s reputation for operational excellence and reliability. It demonstrates that through disciplined maintenance, technical expertise and effective teamwork, the plant continues to perform beyond its original design expectations while supporting the country’s energy security.
The management appreciated the dedication and professionalism of employees from all departments whose collective efforts made this achievement possible.
The successful completion of the Annual Capacity Test not only reflects the strength of teamwork within the organization but also reaffirms the Sahiwal Coal Fired Power Plant’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable and efficient electricity to Pakistan’s national grid.
