Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday approved key electricity projects for Gilgit-Baltistan and Gwadar, including a 100-megawatt solar project for GB to deliver uninterrupted and affordable power.

Chairing a meeting on power sector initiatives, the prime minister ordered the immediate rollout of a comprehensive plan to resolve Gwadar’s chronic power issues.

He directed all relevant institutions to work in “complete coordination” to ensure a reliable supply to the port city.

He also instructed authorities to fast-track the 100MW solar project in GB, stressing that the initiative must provide clean, sustainable and uninterrupted electricity.

“The welfare and economic development of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan is a top priority,” he said, adding that the federal government was taking every possible step to promote industry, investment and growth in GB.

PM Shehbaz appreciated the recommendations put forward by the committee led by Ahsan Iqbal and the Ministry of Energy.

He directed the ministry to ensure the effective execution of immediate, short-term and long-term projects outlined in the strategy.

 “Uninterrupted electricity in Gwadar will boost national economic activity and investment,” he said, noting that power supply for industries and investors must meet regional and international standards.

He added that consistent electricity and other facilities would help transform Gwadar Port into a leading global port and future economic hub.

Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari briefed the meeting that disruptions in Gwadar’s power supply had already been reduced by 42% due to recent actions.

He said the ministry had prepared a plan to stabilise voltage levels within six months, and further measures were underway to improve supply for domestic and commercial users.

Among short-term initiatives, 9.7MW of solar capacity will be installed at major government institutions within 8 to 12 months.

In long-term plans, a 40MW solar project is set to strengthen Gwadar’s power mix.

Officials noted that Gwadar’s energy demand is expected to rise by 30% due to industrial expansion, port growth and urban development.

The 100MW solar project for GB comprises an 18MW rooftop programme and an 82MW utility-scale plant, both to be completed by 2027.

Joint initiatives between the GB government and the Ministry of Energy are expected to save the government Rs1 billion annually.

The GB government will provide land, infrastructure and other necessary facilities.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik and senior officials.