The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has granted generation concurrence to Aerem Energy (Private) Limited (AEREPL) for the development of a 269MW wind-solar hybrid power project at Dhabeji in District Thatta, Sindh, paving the way for another major investment in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector.
Issued under Section 14(B)(5) of the Regulation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution of Electric Power Act, 1997, the approval allows the company to proceed towards financial close and construction after fulfilling regulatory and environmental requirements.
The project, to be established at Goth Dhori Jokhio near Dhabeji, forms part of K-Electric’s Power Acquisition Programme (PAP) to diversify its energy mix through greater reliance on indigenous renewable resources. Developed through a Special Purpose Vehicle incorporated by a consortium led by JCM Power Canada, the project will combine 175MW of wind power with 94MW of solar photovoltaic capacity, taking advantage of the Gharo-Jhimpir wind corridor and strong solar irradiation in the region.
Estimated to cost USD 251 million, the project will be financed through 80 percent debt and 20 percent equity. Nepra has also approved a generation tariff of Rs8.9189 per kWh, one of the lowest tariffs achieved for a renewable energy project in the country.
According to K-Electric, the hybrid facility is expected to generate lifetime savings of Rs176 billion by replacing expensive thermal generation while reducing foreign exchange outflows by nearly USD 986 million.
Nepra observed that the project aligns with Pakistan’s renewable energy objectives by promoting cleaner electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening energy security and lowering dependence on imported fuels, while also creating employment opportunities and supporting sustainable economic development in Sindh.
