The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) Secretariat has intensified efforts to address bureaucratic hurdles faced by M/s TAEL in its Jhimpir wind power project. Sources reveal that SIFC has urged the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) and the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) to swiftly resolve key issues hindering the project’s progress.
During a meeting held on February 13, 2024, two critical issues concerning TAEL’s 49.5MW wind power project were discussed. Firstly, the tariff determination, which awaits Nepra’s decision following a petition filed in January 2023 and a subsequent public hearing in July 2023. Nepra assured that its professional team is in the final stages of finalizing the tariff determination. Secondly, the approval of a change in shareholding of TAEL, awaiting clearance from the PPIB.
Regarding the evacuation arrangement for the project, stakeholders highlighted the need for synchronization with tariff determination timelines. The General Manager of NTDC confirmed the readiness of evacuation arrangements, ensuring timely grid interconnection for the project.
On the matter of shareholding changes, the PPIB informed that the request had been placed before the Board, which constituted a committee to provide recommendations. Legal issues raised were referred to the Ministry of Law, with a response received and pending approval from the Board.
In response, the meeting set deadlines for both Nepra and PPIB to expedite the resolution process. Nepra committed to providing tariff determination by the end of the first week of April 2024, while the PPIB Board is expected to grant approval for the change in shareholding within February 2024.
Participants at the meeting included representatives from financial advisors, PPIB, TAEL, CPPA-G, Power Division, and SIFC, demonstrating a collaborative effort to overcome obstacles and ensure the timely execution of the Jhimpir wind project.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
