The under-construction Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant is poised to inject 1,200 megawatts (MW) of clean, safe, and low-cost electricity into Pakistan’s national grid, further strengthening the country’s energy mix.
During a recent media briefing at the Chashma Nuclear Complex, General Manager Engineer Habibur Rehman shared updates on the project, underscoring Pakistan’s ambition to raise its nuclear power capacity to 8,000 MW. He emphasized the role of nuclear energy in ensuring a sustainable and affordable power supply.
The Chashma-5 plant, based on the state-of-the-art Hualong One (HPR1000) reactor design, is a joint effort between the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). The project marked a major milestone with the first concrete pour on December 30, 2024.
Currently, Pakistan operates six nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 3,530 MW. Upon Chashma-5’s completion, this will rise to 4,730 MW, placing Pakistan among the top 20 nuclear power-producing nations.
Engineer Rehman highlighted the plant’s robust safety systems, technical capabilities, and adherence to environmental standards. He also pointed out the global resurgence in nuclear energy, with countries like the U.S., U.K., Japan, and South Korea reversing previous plans to phase out nuclear power and instead investing in new plants.
In 2024, nuclear energy accounted for about 13% of Pakistan’s total electricity supply, peaking at 26.5% in December—affirming its vital role in the nation’s energy security.
