Prince Rahim inaugurates two solar power plants in Hunza

Prince Rahim Aga Khan, currently visiting Pakistan, has initiated the launch of two solar power plants in Hunza as part of efforts to alleviate the electricity shortage in the region. The development includes the Duiker Solar Power Plant Phase II and the Nasirabad Solar Power Plant, boasting a combined capacity of 3.6 Megawatt Peak (MWp).

Duiker’s phase I, operational since November 2023 with a 1MWp capacity, has notably extended daily power availability for over 11,000 residents, increasing hours of electricity from 10 to 17 in summers and from 4 to 9 in winters. Phase II aims to further enhance capacity to 1.6MWp and battery storage to 1MWh, benefiting an additional 8,760 people and replacing diesel power generation, thereby reducing annual CO2 emissions by 1,100 tonnes.

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Additionally, a 2MWp solar power plant with 1MWh battery storage is planned for Nasirabad in lower Hunza, expected to supply electricity to an extra 23,400 individuals upon its completion in June 2025. NPAK Energy Limited, a subsidiary of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development’s Industrial Promotion Services, is investing $6 million in these projects, leveraging a mix of equity, sustainable debt, and grants. Further funding of $14 million from development partners will enhance the region’s energy infrastructure.

Looking ahead, NPAK Energy aims to attract more investments over the next five years to bolster clean, sustainable energy sources in Hunza and neighboring areas, tackling the energy deficit while contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.