ISLAMABAD: The World Bank approved $450 million in financing to support Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy resources that reduce its reliance on fossil fuel imports and lower costs of electricity production.

The Khyber-Pakhtun­khwa Hydropower and Renew­able Energy Development Project will help shift the national energy mix to domestic clean resources by investing in renewable energy generation, including hydropower and solar in the province.

The project approved by the bank’s executive board on Thursday, will help strengthen energy sector institutions to better manage a growing portfolio of renewable energy projects across the province.

“This project supports Pakistan’s goal to become a low-carbon, renewable energy-reliant economy by 2030 and contributes to its national target in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change,” said World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Najy Benhassine.

“It will facilitate the expansion of renewable energy in Khyber Pakhtun­khwa by identifying and preparing solar and hydropower projects that are technically sound, environmentally and socially sustainable, and investment ready,” he said.

The project will provide low-cost and low-carbon electricity to consumers and will support the economic development of those communities near the hydropower and solar projects by revitalising infrastructure, creating jobs, and supporting the development of tourism activities.

“To scale up renewable energy in KP, the project includes a comprehensive skills training program to build technical capacity in identifying investment opportunities, preparing projects, and mobilising commercial financing,” said Mohammad Saqib, Task Team Leader for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Hydropower and Renewable Energy Development project.

“In addition, by installing solar photovoltaic systems onto hydropower assets, production capacity is expected to rise and generate greater return on investments,” he said.

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2020