EU, AKF Launch Power System Improvement, 3MW Misgar Hydropower Plant Rehabilitation in Hunza
The European Union (EU), Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and NPak Energy have announced a series of measures to improve electricity services in Hunza, including the formal launch of the first phase of the System Loss Reduction Programme and commencement of rehabilitation work on the 3-megawatt Misgar Hydropower Plant.
These initiatives are being implemented under the Energy Plus Project in partnership with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan.
System Loss Reduction Programme Highlights:
- Upgrading transmission, distribution, and metering infrastructure.
- Installation of a new substation, transformers, and transformer substations.
- Laying 25.3 km of transmission lines, 86.5 km of distribution lines, and 460 km of service lines.
- Installation of 9,000 energy meters.
- Reducing system losses from 47% to 15%.
- Improving voltage supplied to consumers from 90-130 volts to 200-220 volts.
- Addressing electricity shortages and tripping issues.
- Establishing a new energy meter laboratory and introducing a new billing system.
Misgar Hydropower Plant Rehabilitation:
The rehabilitation of the 3MW Misgar Hydropower Plant, Hunza's largest facility, was also formally launched. Currently operating at only 30% of its capacity due to civil infrastructure deterioration, its rehabilitation is expected to:
- Increase local renewable energy generation.
- Help address electricity shortages in Hunza.