LAHORE, June 17: The PML-N government in Punjab also allocated Rs20.43 billion for energy production, which is more than double the amount it specified -- Rs10 billion -- for the sector last year.

Under the Renewable Energy Development Sector Investment Programme, it plans to construct Marala (7.46MW), Pakpattan (2.82MW), Deg Outfall (4.04MW), Chianwali (5.38MW) and Okara (4.16MW) hydropower stations.

It also plans to carry out feasibility study for development of coal-based power projects and industrial estate in the province and also establish a Centre for Energy Research and Development at the University of Engineering (Lahore). The construction of 120MW Taunsa Barrage also forms the current year plan, which is part of an overall plan of tapping the potential 206GWh that the province has.

According to the objectives of the energy vision, Punjab is focusing on the quick gestation of projects in the public and private sectors though introduction of appropriate investment and return incentives under optimised power generation policy. It also plans to support cheaper and indigenous sources and introduce appropriate technologies that promise quick indigenization including solar, coal, bio-mass and biogas.