ISLAMABAD: A World Bank Support Mission is visiting Pakistan from January 27–28, 2025, to finalize a work plan and outline next steps for the preparation of the Reactive Compensation Devices (STATCOMs) project. This initiative is vital for ensuring system stability and the reliability of north-south bidirectional power flows in the short to medium term, according to sources in the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC).
The mission aims to continue discussions on potential programmatic support for Pakistan’s power transmission infrastructure. The Power Division previously identified four high-priority transmission projects under the Transmission System Expansion Program (TSEP) and sought assistance from development partners, including the World Bank, to bolster the transmission sector.
The World Bank, collaborating with partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and USAID, has been instrumental in facilitating the preparation of these projects and providing institutional support for NTDC restructuring.
Key objectives of the mission include:
Reviewing USAID-conducted techno-economic studies for priority transmission projects and determining next steps.
Coordinating with the Economic Affairs Division (EAD), Ministry of Energy (Power Division), NTDC, and other stakeholders on the request to conduct a feasibility study for the Matiari-Moro line.
Aligning government requests with program needs and ensuring the nomination of a focal point and program implementation unit from NTDC.
Developing a detailed work plan to advance the STATCOMs project for enhanced power system reliability.
The mission team includes senior experts such as Waleed Saleh L Alsuraih (Lead Energy Specialist and Team Lead), Mohammad Anis (Infrastructure Program Leader), and other specialists in energy, infrastructure, and social development.
This visit underscores the collaborative efforts between Pakistan and international partners to modernize the country’s transmission infrastructure and ensure energy security.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
