Government praised for promoting green energy

The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Friday lauded Government, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Fauji Fertiliser Company Energy Limited (FFCEL) for promoting green energy in Pakistan. All the stakeholders have played a very positive role in introduction of green energy in the country facing acute power shortages which has sent very positive signals, said Dr Murtaza Mughal, President PEW.
President Zardari's resolve to fully exploit Gharo-Keti Bundar wind corridor to produce 50,000MW electricity is very positive at a time when shortage of electricity has become a major challenge for the economy, he said. Completion of Pakistan's first ADB funded 50MW windmill project in Jhimpir is a great step in the right direction which will send positive signals across and prompt other investors, he added.
Dr Murtaza Mughal said that the government's encouraging gestures towards the implementing Company will go a long way in luring local and foreign investors which will benefit Pakistan. Around 106 Megawatt electricity would be included in the national grid through NTDC when the wind energy projects of FFCEL and Zorlu Energy would become operational which is a small additional having a great symbolic value, he opined.
He said that Pakistani and foreign companies can develop more wind energy projects if they are encouraged by government and the Alternative Energy Development Board. Dr Murtaza Mughal said that Gharo-Keti Bundar wind corridor can become hub of wind power sector attracting billions of dollars of investment to produce power from free and clean energy source. The funding by ADB will not only improve energy situation, balance energy mix and reduce oil import bill but also attract heavy investments to reduce poverty by creating thousands of jobs.
He demanded of the government to pay special attention to the sustainable energy resources through favourable policy and regulatory environment which will push the growth of renewable green energy in Pakistan. Grid access is not available to majority of people in Pakistan due to proximity who can be benefited from renewable green energy sources.