RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: Punjab government has signed a MoU with renowned Turkish Company Zorlu Enerji for setting up 200MW solar power project in Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park Bahawalpur.

Chief Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif was the chief guest at the ceremony held at Model Town, here on Wednesday. Secretary Energy Asad-ur-Rehman Gillani on behalf of Punjab government and Deputy General Manager Ahmet Yagmur on behalf of Turkish Company signed the MoU. The Turkish company under MoU will install 200 MW solar plant at Quaid-e-Azam Solar Power Park, Bahawalpur, while the Punjab government will provide all out facilities.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Minister said the MoU reached with Turkish company will help to eliminate darkness of load-shedding from the country. He said historic friendly ties with Turkey are transforming into economic cooperation. He said electricity produced from 200MW project will cost Rs 5.25 per unit (5.15 cent) that will be a great achievement. He said this solar project is the best power project of the country, while NEPRAs tariff currently stands at 10.50 cents which is an exceptionally high. He said that Turkish company and Punjab government had signed 100MW solar power project a few days ago and this project will be completed in June, while todays project will be completed in December 2017.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif, hectic efforts are being made to overcome energy crisis and work on mega development projects is continuing at the fast track with transparency, speed and in a professional manner, he said, adding that the recent agreement shows close cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan. He congratulated Turkish Consul General Serdar Deniz, officials of Turkish Company and the team of Punjab government who are doing a wonderful job.