SK Hydropower Station Showcased at SCO Summit 2025 as a flagship of Pakistan-China energy cooperation, drawing attention to its role in sustainable development. The project was highlighted at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 in Tianjin, China, where leaders gathered to promote regional connectivity and green growth.
The SK Hydropower Station, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was featured in the SCO Summit Special Issue of China’s International Business Daily. This recognition underscored its role in advancing the “Shanghai Spirit” of mutual trust, benefit, and shared progress. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who led Pakistan’s delegation, stressed that the project reflects Pakistan’s growing engagement with SCO members in clean energy and infrastructure.
Construction of the station began in 2016, and commercial operations started in September 2024. By August 2025, the project had already delivered more than 2.7 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity to Pakistan’s grid. As a result, it helped reduce power shortages and supported the country’s transition to renewable energy.
Beyond electricity generation, the SK Hydropower Station has contributed to local development. It planted over 150,000 trees, built a trout hatchery to preserve the ecosystem, and offered scholarships to local students. In addition, it funded infrastructure upgrades such as the N15 highway realignment. During natural disasters, the project team also provided aid and organised rescue operations, demonstrating social responsibility.
Analysts at the summit noted that the SK Hydropower Station Showcased at the SCO Summit 2025 stands as a model for other member states. They emphasised that the project shows how Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) investments can align with local sustainability goals. Most importantly, its success offers a framework for balancing energy security, environmental protection, and community welfare across the region.
Related stories:
Suki Kinari’s green drive elevates China-Pakistan cooperation
