PCJCCI hails Sahiwal Coal Plant success

July 13, 2026 (MLN): The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) has described the China-backed Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant as one of the most successful flagship projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), crediting it with strengthening Pakistan's energy security, supporting industrial growth, and contributing to the country's economic development.

The chamber said the project's performance underscores the need for more large-scale, technology-driven energy investments to meet rising electricity demand and sustain long-term economic growth, according to APP.

PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain said the 1,320-megawatt Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant represents the strong strategic partnership between Pakistan and China and highlights the impact of Chinese investment under CPEC.

Developed by Huaneng Shandong Ruyi, the plant has been supplying electricity to the national grid since beginning commercial operations in 2017.

He said the project's reliable power generation has helped reduce the country's energy deficit, improve industrial productivity, strengthen investor confidence, and ensure uninterrupted operations across key sectors of the economy.

Nazir Hussain stressed that Pakistan's future economic growth depends on continued investment in modern energy infrastructure.

He said expanding industrialization and increasing electricity demand require more projects of similar scale under Pakistan-China cooperation, adding that dependable and affordable energy is essential for manufacturing, exports, digital transformation, and sustainable economic development.

PCJCCI Vice President Amir Ali said the project's economic contribution extends beyond electricity generation.

According to him, the plant has contributed to the national economy through tax revenues, local procurement, business opportunities, and the growth of supporting industries, while also stimulating economic activity in the surrounding region.

He added that the project created thousands of direct and indirect jobs during its construction and operational phases.

He also noted that its technical training facilities have equipped Pakistani engineers and technicians with modern engineering and operational skills, enabling them to support the country's expanding energy and industrial sectors.

He emphasized that future infrastructure projects should continue to prioritize human resource development.

PCJCCI Commercial Ambassador Adeel Munawar said the Sahiwal power plant reflects China's advanced engineering capabilities and efficient energy production technologies.

He noted that the facility uses supercritical coal-fired technology, which improves fuel efficiency and lowers coal consumption compared to conventional thermal power plants.

He further said the plant is equipped with environmental protection systems, including Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP), Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), and Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS), which help control emissions and support compliance with internationally recognized environmental standards.

He said the project demonstrates that industrial development and environmental responsibility can progress together through advanced technology and careful planning.

Adeel Munawar also called for continued Chinese investment in next-generation energy infrastructure, including clean coal technologies, hydropower, renewable energy, energy storage systems, and smart transmission networks.

He said greater cooperation in the energy sector would improve Pakistan's energy resilience, reduce industrial production costs, strengthen export competitiveness, and create skilled employment opportunities.

PCJCCI Secretary General Salahuddin Hanif said Pakistan requires a diversified, reliable, and sustainable energy mix to support industrial expansion, agriculture, digital infrastructure, urban development, and future Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

While acknowledging the growing role of renewable energy, he said efficient baseload power projects such as the Sahiwal Coal-Fired Power Plant remain essential for maintaining grid stability and ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply.

He said the success of the Sahiwal project should serve as a model for future Pakistan-China cooperation.

The chamber maintained that more strategic energy projects under CPEC would strengthen Pakistan's energy security, accelerate industrialization, attract foreign investment, generate employment, and support long-term economic growth.

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