The Punjab government has allocated Rs 9 billion for energy sector for the FY 2017-18 with the launch of Khadim-e-Punjab Ujala Programme to Solaris 10,000 schools all over the Punjab. An amount of Rs 3 billion has been proposed for this mega project. The said amount will be reimbursed by the foreign donors ie ADB & AFD under DLIs.
The major Targets and Initiatives for 2017-18 include: Completion of Renewable Energy Development Sector Investment Programme hydel power generation project at Marala, Pakpattan, Chianwali, & Degout fall for adding 20 MW Energy to the National Grid; Installation of AMI Meters in Government Electricity billing; Provide enabling environment for private investment to develop Small, Mini & Micro Hydel Power Projects; Commencement of 135 MW Taunsa Hydel Power Project; Commencement of Bio Mass Power Project at Faisalabad; Commencement of Energy Resource Centre in Lahore; Execution of Khadim-e-Punjab Ujala Programme to Solarise 20,000 schools in Punjab; Establishment of 15-20 MW Bio Mass Thermal Power Plant near Chak Jhumra, Faisalabad; Establishment of Mini Hydro Power Sites; Up gradation of Centre for Energy Research & and development at UET Lahore; Installation of Net Meters at Public Buildings having installed solar panels; Consultancy services on Oil & Gas Sector after 18th Amendment scenario.
It may be noted that the Punjab government had allocated Rs 9 billion during the FY 2016-17 Major programmes included development of Hydel power project under REDSIP (Rs 4.63 billion), Energy Development Fund (Rs 2 billion), Energy Efficiency & Conservation Programme (Rs 950 million) construction of spur line for Sahiwal Power Project (Rs 250 million) and construction of Energy Resource Centre, (Rs 250 million).
The government has also succeeded to attract private investment in Energy Sector and several power projects are started. These projects are scheduled on fast track completion within 2 to 3 years and over 8000 MW will be added to the National Grid by these private sector projects. In addition to public sector spending the provincial energy department has established one window service and fast track & transparent processing to streamline the private investment in the area of Energy Sector.