Chinese Firm Denies Allegations of Irregularities in Coal Bidding Process

Sahiwal-Power

ISLAMABAD: Chinese company Huaneng Shandong Ruyi (HSR), the owner of the 1,360MW Sahiwal coal-fired power plant, has strongly refuted allegations of irregularities in its coal procurement process, dismissing them as a targeted attempt to tarnish its reputation for vested business interests.

In a letter to the Power Division, HSR addressed a complaint filed by Noor Khan and Haider Sultan on January 10, 2024, categorically denying any involvement of Sinpa Commercial (SMC-PRIVATE) Limited or YONGTAI Energy Pvt. Ltd. in its coal bidding process. The company asserted that these firms have never been part of any coal supply agreements for the Sahiwal plant.

HSR emphasized that all coal procurement is conducted through a stringent and transparent competitive bidding process. This includes public notices in national newspapers, sealed bid submissions, and bid openings in the presence of all attending suppliers, with the entire process recorded on video.

The company underscored its strict adherence to internal controls, ensuring full compliance with the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and Nepra’s tariff regulations. Despite these rigorous measures, HSR expressed concern over attempts by certain entities to manipulate the procurement process for financial gain by spreading false allegations.

“These baseless claims not only violate ethical business conduct but also threaten the integrity of the regulatory system,” HSR stated in its letter to Nepra. The company urged regulatory authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter and prevent the misuse of the complaint process.

HSR reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness, and compliance in all business operations, pledging continued collaboration with regulatory bodies to uphold the highest standards in procurement and contribute to the stability of Pakistan’s energy sector.

Story by Mushtaq Ghumman

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