Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has announced plans to utilize solar energy to power Balochistan’s Gwadar Port, aiming to boost its operational efficiency, according to a press release issued by the ministry.
Gwadar Port, constructed over a decade ago, has struggled to reach its full potential. This prompted the federal government to accelerate efforts for its maximum utilization. Earlier this month, the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA) partnered with a Chinese company to increase investments and develop the port into a regional transshipment hub.
During a recent meeting focused on enhancing port operations, Chaudhry revealed that “efforts are underway to implement solar-based solutions” to strengthen Gwadar Port’s capabilities. A dedicated sub-committee has been formed to oversee the planning and execution of an efficient solar energy plan. This includes recommending the installation of solar photovoltaic systems, battery storage solutions for Gwadar’s water facilities, and measures to bolster the region’s overall power supply.
The sub-committee, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Federal Board of Revenue, Gwadar Port Authority, Gwadar Development Authority, Quetta Electric Supply Company, and the Prime Minister’s Office, is tasked with designing solar power distribution systems integrated with storage options. These systems will ensure a reliable energy supply for critical infrastructure, including the Gwadar Port Authority.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry explained that the plan involves establishing micro solar grids across the port to meet its energy needs throughout the year. “This initiative aims to reduce Gwadar’s dependence on external energy sources by achieving self-sufficiency through local power generation,” he stated. Strategic locations have been identified for these grids, which will supply power to vital infrastructure such as water pumps and the 1.2 million gallons per day (MGD) desalination plant.
The minister further noted that the initiative will soon become fully operational, paving the way for new factories in Gwadar’s free zone and providing power to the Gwadar International Airport. He emphasized that the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is working closely with the Planning Ministry and other stakeholders to address Gwadar’s pressing power and water shortages.
Junaid Anwar highlighted the potential economic benefits of the transition to solar energy, particularly for Gwadar’s fishing industry. He estimated that this shift could save over a million dollars annually. “Adopting solar energy is not just about cost savings but also critical for protecting Gwadar’s flagship fishing industry, which supports local livelihoods and strengthens its export market standing,” he said.
Key attendees at the meeting included Chairman Gwadar Port Authority Noorul Haque Baloch, Chairman of China Overseas Port Holding Company Limited (COPHCL) My Yu Bo, Additional Secretary of the Maritime Ministry Umer Zaffer Shaikh, and Technical Advisor Jawad Akhtar.
Additionally, on July 1, the Maritime Affairs Ministry announced plans to expand Gwadar Port’s operational capacity by introducing new shipping lines and launching a ferry service to connect Pakistan with Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Earlier this year, the government also sought private sector support to route its cargo through Gwadar Port.
