July 18, 2023 (MLN): Electricity generation by Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) hydel power stations surpasses the 7,000 Megawatt (MW) mark as WAPDA contributes 7,286 MW to the National Grid during peak hours last night, the highest of the season, a latest press release issued stated.
Effective operation and maintenance of WAPDA hydel power stations, improved river inflows, increased water reservoir level, and indent by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) are the contributing factors behind the surge in hydel power generation by WAPDA.
It is worth noting that Fitch Ratings upgraded Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority's (WAPDA) Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to 'CCC' from 'CCC-' on July 14.
According to the statistics, Tarbela Hydel Power Station generation is 3,446 MW, Tarbela 4th Extension 1,410 MW, Ghazi Barotha 1,450 MW, Mangla 275 MW, Warsak 172 MW, and Chashma 147 MW.
While the other hydel power stations contributed 386 MW cumulatively.
Hydel generation by WAPDA is expected to increase in the days to come with improved hydrological conditions, increased indent by IRSA, and resumption of electricity generation from Neelum Jhelum Hydel Power Station.
The cost of WAPDA hydel generation stands at Rs.3.51 per unit, which is the cheapest if compared with other sources of electricity generation in the country.
Hence, it has a significant impact on lowering the overall tariff.
WAPDA owns and operates 22 hydel power stations with a cumulative installed capacity of 9,459 MW.
The entity is vigorously implementing a least-cost energy generation plan to enhance the share of hydel electricity in the National Grid.
A number of mega projects are being constructed in the hydropower sector scheduled to be completed from 2024 to 2028-29 in a phased manner.
These projects will double the country's installed generation capacity by adding about 10,000 MW of clean, green, and low-cost hydel electricity to the National Grid.
Copyright Mettis Link News
Posted on: 2023-07-18T21:51:33+05:00
