KARACHI: The National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) has begun construction of a 220/132kV gas-insulated substation (GIS) in Thatta, marking a major step toward strengthening the country’s renewable energy transmission network.
Deputy Managing Director (AD&M) Engr Rasheed A. Bhutto laid the foundation stone on Thursday, joined by Siemens Energy Managing Director Engr Nadeem Ali Kazmi and KfW Country Director Sebastian Jacobi, during a ceremony at the project site.
The substation is designed to support the reliable evacuation of electricity generated by wind power plants in the Gharo Wind Cluster. Backed by a €27 million commitment from German development bank KfW, the project is expected to be completed within 24 months.
Key components of the new grid station include two 220/132kV, 250 MVA autotransformers, two 220kV line bays connecting a double-circuit transmission line to the Jhimpir and Dhabeji grid stations, and four 132kV line bays dedicated to facilitating connectivity for Gharo-based wind projects. The initiative will significantly enhance renewable energy integration and improve the delivery of clean power to the national grid.
NGC Managing Director Engr Altaf Hussain Malik praised the project delivery south team and urged strict adherence to timelines and quality standards.
Speaking at the event, Bhutto highlighted the project’s strategic importance, noting that the Gharo GIS substation will accelerate Pakistan’s renewable energy expansion, reinforce the national transmission system, improve voltage profiles across NGC and Hesco networks, and help reduce transmission losses.
