Gwadar Port to Go Solar: Federal Minister Announces Sustainable Energy Initiative

Islamabad:Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, has announced a major initiative to power Gwadar Port through solar energy, aiming to boost the port’s operational capacity and reduce reliance on external power sources.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the plan was discussed during a high-level meeting focused on improving port operations. The minister stated that efforts are underway to implement solar-based solutions across the port infrastructure.

A special sub-committee has been formed to plan and execute the solar transition. The committee will recommend effective use of solar photovoltaic systems, install battery storage solutions for water facilities, and suggest ways to improve overall power supply in the region. It will also develop a solar power distribution system with integrated storage to ensure uninterrupted electricity for key infrastructures, including the Gwadar Port Authority.

The sub-committee comprises representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Gwadar Port Authority, Gwadar Development Authority, Quetta Electric Supply Company, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry revealed that micro solar grids will be installed throughout the port to meet its annual energy requirements. These grids will supply power to essential services such as water pumps and a 1.2 million gallon-per-day (MGD) desalination plant.

He added that the project will soon become fully operational, enabling the establishment of new factories in the Gwadar Free Zone and providing electricity to Gwadar International Airport.

The minister emphasized that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is working closely with the Planning Ministry and other stakeholders to address Gwadar’s water and power shortages. He further noted that the transition to solar energy could save over a million dollars for the local fishing industry by reducing costs and stabilizing operations.

“This shift is not only about cutting expenses but also about securing the future of Gwadar’s core industries, which support local employment and strengthen our position in export markets,” he said.

Attendees of the meeting included Gwadar Port Authority Chairman Noor-ul-Haq Baloch, COPHCL Chairman Mr. Mai Yubo, Additional Secretary Maritime Affairs Umar Zafar Sheikh, and Technical Advisor Jawad Akhtar.

This initiative follows the Ministry’s July 1 announcement of an expansion plan for Gwadar Port’s operational capacity, which includes the introduction of additional shipping lines and a ferry service linking Pakistan with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

In January, the government also called on the private sector to support cargo movement through Gwadar Port.