London: Pakistan participates in Growing Economies Energy Forum in London
The Growing Economies Energy Forum (GEEF), hosted open discussions between the
governments and private sector from the most anticipated new energy markets in
the world including Pakistan, in London from 22-23 June 2016. The Forum explored
ways and means to tap into opportunities at an early stage as these countries
open up for international investment following political and economic
developments.
H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK delivered the
key-note address on “The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Pakistan’s Power
Strategy”. He highlighted the role of private investors in increasing the
efficiency of Pakistan’s power industry and importance of indigenous coal and
hydro-power development for Pakistan.
The High Commissioner updated the participants that the Government of Pakistan
has turned around the economy in the last three years and now we seek to
showcase the enormous opportunities for profitable investments that exist in
every sector of Pakistan, particularly, energy sector. He also informed the
Forum that existing power companies are receiving excellent returns on their
investments by virtue of the liberal investment regime of Pakistan. The High
Commissioner highlighted the overwhelming hydro-power potential of Pakistan that
is around 60,000 MW, most of which is untapped. Similarly, Pakistan’s coal
reserves of 185 billion tons can cumulatively generate 4620 MW electricity,
informed the High Commissioner.
Shah Jehan Mirza, Managing Director, Private Power and Infrastructure Board
(PPIB), Ministry of Water and Power, Pakistan made a presentation on the policy
and legal framework of the energy sector of Pakistan and the immense
opportunities available for international investors. Mr Saad Zaman of Abraaj
Group informed the participants about their huge investment in Pakistan.
Similarly, Mr Asif Saad, COO of K-Electric briefed the audience on the
performance of K-Electric. Mr Liang Xuan, Director Middle East and North Africa,
Goldwind International Holdings (HK) Limited apprised the Forum about huge wind
energy potential in Pakistan. He said his company was aiming to generate 2000 MW
of wind energy in near future in Pakistan.
The Forum provided a valuable opportunity for the Pakistan delegation to
exchange ideas on needs and brainstorm strategies vis-a-vis energy sector in
Pakistan. The High Commissioner congratulated the EnergyNet Ltd on organising
the Forum.
