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Govt Plans Solar Power for Gwadar Port to Boost Efficiency
Maritime Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announces plans to power Gwadar Port with solar energy The move aims to cut reliance on external energy, boost port operations & support local industries.
ND
by News Desk
2025-08-27
Govt Plans Solar Power for Gwadar Port to Boost Efficiency

The federal government has unveiled a major initiative to shift Gwadar Port to solar energy in an effort to improve efficiency, ensure a reliable power supply, and strengthen the region’s economy.

Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the plan on Wednesday, highlighting the government’s commitment to resolve Gwadar’s long-standing issues of power shortages and underutilization.

Gwadar Port, constructed over a decade ago, has struggled to achieve its full potential as a key trade and transshipment hub. To accelerate progress, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is working with relevant stakeholders to implement solar-based solutions that will make the port more self-sufficient.

Solar Initiative and Sub-Committee Formation

According to a ministry press release, a sub-committee has been established to design and implement a comprehensive solar power strategy. The committee will include representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Gwadar Port Authority (GPA), Gwadar Development Authority, Quetta Electric Supply Company, Federal Board of Revenue, and officials from the Prime Minister’s Office.

The committee will:

  • Recommend installation of solar photovoltaic systems with battery storage.
  • Enhance the water supply network through solar-powered solutions.
  • Integrate solar grids with key infrastructure, including GPA facilities.
  • Support the 1.2 million gallons per day (MGD) desalination plant and water pumps.

Chaudhry said micro solar grids will be established across strategic locations of the port to meet energy needs throughout the year.

Economic and Industrial Benefits

The minister emphasized that the shift to solar power would:

  • Facilitate the establishment of new factories in the Gwadar Free Zone.
  • Provide reliable energy to the Gwadar International Airport.
  • Save the city’s fishing industry over a million dollars annually.
  • Reduce Gwadar’s dependence on external power sources.

“Solar energy is not only about cutting costs but is also vital to protecting Gwadar’s fishing industry, which sustains livelihoods and strengthens export potential,” Chaudhry noted.

Ongoing Development of Gwadar Port

The solar initiative follows recent steps by the government and Chinese stakeholders to enhance Gwadar’s operational capacity. Earlier this month, GPA signed agreements with a Chinese company to boost investment and develop the port as a regional transshipment center.

Additionally, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has announced plans to expand shipping lines, introduce ferry services linking Pakistan with GCC countries, and attract private sector participation in routing cargo through Gwadar.

With these efforts, officials believe Gwadar is positioned to finally realize its potential as a key driver of regional trade, investment, and sustainable economic growth.

 
Tagged:

gwadar

SolarEnergy

GwadarPort

MaritimeAffairs
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