Sahiwal Coal Power Plant strengthens Pakistan's energy eecurity: PCJCCI

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Jul, 2026) Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) here Monday hailed the China-backed Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant as one of the most successful flagship projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stating that it has made a significant contribution to Pakistan's energy security, industrial development, and overall economic progress.

The joint chamber emphasized that success of Sahiwal project demonstrates the importance of initiating more large-scale, technology-driven energy projects to meet Pakistan's growing electricity demand and sustain long-term economic growth.

PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain stated that Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant stands as a remarkable symbol of the enduring Pakistan-China strategic partnership and reflects the transformative impact of Chinese investment under the CPEC.

He noted that the 1,320-megawatt power plant, developed by Huaneng Shandong Ruyi, has been delivering reliable electricity to the national grid since commencing commercial operations in 2017. Its uninterrupted power supply has helped reduce the country's energy shortfall, improve industrial productivity, strengthen investor confidence, and support uninterrupted operations across key sectors of the economy.

He remarked that Pakistan's future economic ambitions require continuous investment in modern energy infrastructure. "As industrialization accelerates and electricity demand continues to rise, more projects of this scale should be initiated under Pakistan-China cooperation. Reliable and affordable energy remains the backbone of manufacturing, exports, digital transformation, and sustainable economic development," he added.

PCJCCI Vice President Amir Ali emphasized that economic benefits of Sahiwal project extend well beyond electricity generation. He said the plant has made a substantial contribution to national economy through tax revenues, local procurement, business opportunities, and the development of supporting industries while stimulating economic activity throughout the surrounding region.

He highlighted, the project generated thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities during both its construction and operational phases. Additionally, its technical training facilities have equipped Pakistani engineers and technicians with modern operational and engineering skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to the country's expanding energy and industrial sectors. He stressed that investment in human resource development must remain an integral component of all future infrastructure projects.

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The joint chamber's Commercial Ambassador

Adeel Munawar observed that Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant showcases China's advanced engineering expertise and commitment to efficient energy production. He explained that the facility utilizes modern supercritical coal-fired technology, which significantly improves fuel efficiency while reducing coal consumption compared to conventional thermal power plants.

He further noted that the plant incorporates advanced environmental protection systems, including Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP), Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), and Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS), which effectively control emissions and support compliance with internationally recognized environmental standards. He added that the successful integration of advanced technology demonstrates that industrial development and environmental responsibility can progress together through innovation and responsible planning.

Adeel Munawar emphasized that Pakistan should continue attracting Chinese investment in next-generation energy infrastructure, including clean coal technologies, hydropower, renewable energy, energy storage systems, and smart transmission networks. He noted that expanding cooperation in the energy sector would strengthen Pakistan's energy resilience, reduce production costs for industries, enhance export competitiveness, and create new employment opportunities for skilled professionals.

Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General PCJCCI, stated that Pakistan's rapidly expanding economy requires a diversified, reliable, and sustainable energy mix capable of supporting industrial expansion, agriculture, digital infrastructure, urban development, and future Special Economic Zones (SEZs). While renewable energy continues to grow in importance, he remarked that efficient baseload power projects such as the Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant remain indispensable for ensuring grid stability and uninterrupted electricity supply.

He concluded that the remarkable success of the Sahiwal project should serve as a model for future Pakistan-China collaboration.

PCJCCI believes that initiating more strategic energy projects under CPEC will not only strengthen Pakistan's energy security but also accelerate industrialization, attract greater foreign investment, create employment opportunities, and contribute substantially to the country's long-term economic prosperity.