In Islamabad, the Apex Committee (AC) of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has made significant decisions regarding energy projects and economic initiatives, according to reliable sources. The committee has opted to cancel all Letters of Interest (LoIs) for category-III wind projects, except for the 300-MW project designated for K-Electric (KE), aligning with established policy guidelines.
Concerning solar projects, the AC has determined that the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC) will confirm the evacuation capacity for Cat-III solar projects after the finalization of the Integrated Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) and Transmission System Expansion Plan (TSEP), both of which are underway and expected to conclude by the end of April 2024.
In recent developments, the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) has requested an interim investment plan from K-Electric (KE) for approval by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra). Furthermore, the committee emphasized the importance of KE’s role as the off-taker for Category-III projects in Sindh and urged the submission of the draft Energy Purchase Agreement (EPA) to facilitate the competitive bidding process led by PPIB.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing power anti-theft campaign, which has resulted in the recovery of Rs 85.7 billion. The establishment of anti-theft cells in all Distribution Companies (Discos) was highlighted, with AC urging continued support from Provincial Chief Secretaries, IGPs, and federal departments.
Regarding the privatization of two RLNG power plants, the Ministerial Committee recommended postponing the process, a decision endorsed by the AC. Additionally, the committee noted outstanding payments from LESCO to JW SEZ and directed the Board of Investment to prioritize power supply to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in collaboration with the Planning Commission.
The Secretary of AC-SIFC provided updates on the council’s activities, including hosting foreign delegations and facilitating investor meetings and conferences. The Chief of Army Staff commended SIFC for its contributions to Pakistan’s economic resilience and emphasized its role as a guiding force for policy continuity.
Overall, the AC’s decisions underscore a concerted effort towards sustainable economic growth and investment facilitation in Pakistan.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
