Suki Kinari HPP set for commercial operation

Suki Kinari HPP set for commercial operation as Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal celebrated the occasion.

In a major advancement for Pakistan’s energy sector, the 884 MW Suki Kinari Hydropower Project (SKHPP), a flagship initiative of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), achieved its Commercial Operation Date (COD) on Friday. This $1.7 billion investment marks one of the largest private energy ventures under CPEC and is a key driver of Pakistan’s clean energy transition.

Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, celebrated the occasion on his official X account, hailing the project as “another success of CPEC.” He congratulated the Chinese government, project sponsors Energy China, Pakistani officials, and all contributors for their role in this accomplishment, underlining the collective commitment of both nations toward sustainable energy and economic growth.

Moreover, Iqbal highlighted the project’s contribution to Pakistan’s clean and renewable energy goals, asserting that it will help the country meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and spur industrial growth.

Consequently, after the project began filling its reservoir in February, the first unit was synchronized with the national grid by August 12, marking the start of operations.

Built by China Gezhouba Group Company Ltd. (CGGC Ltd), the hydropower plant is located on the Kunhar River in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The dam, an asphalt concrete core rock-fill type, stands 54.5 meters tall with a crest elevation of 2,239.5 meters. It extends 258 meters in length and has a total capacity of 1.9 million cubic meters.

Additionally, SKHPP is expected to play a vital role in meeting Pakistan’s energy needs and environmental objectives by delivering clean energy.