Upgrading transmission, distribution system: K-Electric plans $2 billion future investment

K-Electric has decided to invest $2.2 billion to improve the generation capacity and upgrading the transmission and distribution networks of electricity. "Since 2009, KE has invested $1.2 billion and added 1037 megawatt in the grid with a commitment to further invest $2.2 billion as part of its overall future investment plan,"
Syed Fakhar Ahmed, Chief Marketing and Communication Officer K-Electric told the Business Recorder on Friday. He said that over the years, K-Electric introduced a number of customer-friendly initiatives including improving the generation capacity and upgrading the transmission and distribution networks.
He said that KE's upcoming projects include a 700MW coal-fired power plant at Port Qasim and two dual fuel (gas & HFO) power projects of 250MW and 200MW in Korangi and Baldia respectively that would help further enhance the generation capacity and gird system stability.
"To have affordable and uninterrupted power supply for its customers, transmission enhancement plan (TP-1000) is progressing and the groundbreaking of the first grid station under the project will be carried out early next month. TP-1000 is a reflection of K-Electric's vision and poised to achieve the company's long-term objectives," he said.
Fakhar further said that KE through TP-1000 would add 8t new grid stations comprising 220KV and 132KV network, bay extensions, 6 new auto transformers, efficiency expansion plan for 21 existing grid stations that would also include addition of 30 power transformers and more than 400 new 11KV feeders to cater to the growing demands of the city.
He said that 10 new 220KV and 132KV double and single circuit transmission lines of approximately 130Km would also be laid while 3 existing 220KV and 132KV transmission circuits would be rehabilitated to increase the power carrying capacity and reliability. An additional disaster recovery centre (DCR) would help overcome emergency situations whereas new transmission lines, circuits and grids would help decrease the fault ratio and increase reliability and supply of electricity.
Responding to a query, he said that being the industry leader, conserving energy was at the heart of KE's business. He said KE continuously improved its electricity generation in order to lower fuel consumption and emissions. He said they also wanted the customers to benefit from the opportunities offered by making more efficient use of energy.
"With innovative services, we help residential and industrial customers to reduce costs in an environment-friendly manner. Our unrelenting commitment to impact the society through our social investment programme also remains a priority which is evident through a number of projects accomplished in this area and many are being envisioned," he concluded.