The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a pivotal initiative under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has played a crucial role in overcoming Pakistan's energy crisis, ushering in a new era of economic prosperity, according to Pakistani officials.

Hammad Azhar, Pakistan's Energy Minister, emphasized the significance of the power plants built under CPEC, stating that they have substantially addressed the country's severe electricity shortages. These projects not only introduced advanced technology but also created numerous job opportunities, contributing to economic growth.

Azhar highlighted the impact of the 660kv Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission project, a key component of CPEC. This transmission project is set to save energy consumption and transmit affordable electricity from southern CPEC power plants to the northern load centers, effectively addressing energy shortages and mitigating inflated electricity prices.

The completion of CPEC's southern power plants and the Matiari-Lahore transmission project, expected to commence commercial operation later this year, ensures supply availability, stability, and security. This, in turn, supports the industrialization process in Pakistan, fostering economic development.

Discussing the future of BRI as a green Belt and Road and CPEC as a green corridor, Azhar revealed Pakistan's commitment to achieving "the target of 30 percent renewable energy in the national grid by 2030," with CPEC playing a pivotal role in renewable energy projects such as hydropower, wind, and solar.

Muhammad Ayub, Managing Director of the National Transmission and Despatch Company, highlighted the positive impact of CPEC's energy projects on employment, providing direct and indirect job opportunities to Pakistanis and contributing to the country's economic development.

Ayub noted that CPEC's power plants offer electricity at competitive prices, and with the implementation of the HVDC transmission project, significant energy savings are anticipated. The HVDC transmission line is expected to reduce electricity wastage to about 4 percent, compared to the current national average of over 18 percent due to outdated transmission lines.

As the industrial sector in Pakistan witnesses an 18-percent increase in electricity demand in June, CPEC continues to play a vital role in meeting the needs of both domestic and industrial consumers. The ongoing and future CPEC projects are poised to add more electricity to the national grid, contributing to increased revenues, industrial growth, and improved public lifestyles.