Technology

Pakistan, WB ink $195m pact to improve electricity distribution

world bank - Pakistan, WB ink $195m pact to improve electricity distribution

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has signed a financing agreement, worth $195 million, with the World Bank to improve electricity distribution and implement energy sector reforms to increase service quality for consumers.

The agreement was signed by Secretary Economic Affairs Division Mian Asad Hayaud Din on behalf of the Government of Pakistan. Operations Manager World Bank Anjum Ahmad signed the agreements on behalf of the World Bank.

The project objectives are to improve operational efficiency in targeted areas of three electricity distribution companies i.e. Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO), Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) and achieve progress on the power sector reform agenda.

Read More: Pakistan, ADB sign deals worth $1.54bn to uplift energy, transport, urban sectors

The Electricity Distribution Efficiency Improvement Project (EDEIP) will help distribution companies improve operations to manage the electricity supply more efficiently and increase the reliability of the electrical grid through; (a) new grid stations; (b) augmentation and up-gradation of existing grid stations; (c) construction, rehabilitation of transmission lines, modernization of DISCOs operations and management functions, revenue and equipment protection programme and improving operations and maintenance.

The project will also support the Power Division in fulfilling its policy mandate under the National Electricity Policy 2021 and implement power sector reforms.

Speaking on the occasion, the EAD secretary thanked and appreciated the World Bank management for extending continuous support to the government to promote inclusive and sustainable economic development.

He shared that, even at times of prevailing difficult situations, the government kept its focus on implementing structural reforms so that the economy regains its strength.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to further strengthen implementation of reforms, including comprehensive power sector reforms focusing strongly on reducing current and future power costs, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuel, increasing renewable energy, addressing inefficiencies in distribution and lowering subsidies in the sector by better targeting them to those most in need.

Days ago, the ADB approved financing worth $195 million for EDEIP. The project focuses on cost-saving interventions to increase revenue collection and reduce losses, and on modernising operations by employing technology and information systems.

“The long-term financial viability of the power sector depends on improving the efficiency of electricity distribution companies that deliver electricity to consumers,” Najy Benhassine, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan stated then.

“These efforts will improve the operational and financial performance of select distribution companies to improve their bankability and ultimately, generate more private sector participation,” he added.

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