Energy sector: Rs 31 billion allocated

In order to achieve the energy sector targets, Punjab government has allocated Rs 31 billion for Energy Sector in the ADP 2014-15. Accordingly, Punjab will witness a major thrust towards renewable energy sources and energy efficiency and conservation initiatives during the FY 2014-15. In this regard, a number of projects based on bio-mass have been identified.
Efforts are being focused to attract private and foreign investment in this sector to augment Punjab's development outlay and bring in management efficiencies. Work on various Public Private Partnership models has already started which will gain momentum during FY 2014-15.
It may be noted that the energy shortage has plagued the economy and hampered it from realising its full potential. It has not only stinted the growth of economy, but has also brought miseries for ordinary citizens who are unable to continue livelihoods and businesses.
Government of Punjab has taken a number of initiatives to combat the energy crises. The establishment of Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park in Cholistan Bahawalpur is a reflection of the resolve of the government to deal with power crises. Earmarking of sites for coal-fired power plants in the province and exploitation of indigenous fuels such as biomass and biogas are part of government of Punjab's priorities. Development budget 2014-15 includes a sizable allocation for energy related projects.
The main objectives of the Annual Development Programme 2014-15 include overcoming energy shortage and an allocation of Rs 31 billion for investment in the energy sector to overcome power shortages in the province. This huge amount would be spent on energy sector infrastructure development.
Conversion of existing IT Labs on Solar Energy in 1,200 High / Higher Secondary Schools of Punjab, provision of Solar Energy Solution to Special Education Offices of District Education Officer in Punjab, promotion of alternate energy for command area development of 173 mini dams in Potohar Region are a few major areas of focus in the budget.
It may be noted that Punjab government had established Energy Department in 2011 to oversee and administer the development, growth, and regulation of energy sector in Punjab, whereas the Department has a consistent focus on effective regulation in energy conservation and regulation, and has set up wings to facilitate power generation in the province.
Punjab Power Development Board (PPDB) facilitates power generation in the province by engaging private sector. In addition to that two public sector companies ie Punjab Power Development Company Limited (PPDCL) and Punjab Quaid-e-Azam Solar Power Company have been set up to expedite power generation in the province.
Total generation capacity in the province of Punjab is only 9,564MW against its present requirement of 14,000MW which is increasing at the pace of eight percent per annum. It is presumed that in the year 2018 the demand of Punjab will be 20,570MW and by the year 2025, this demand will increase up to 35,254MW.