As per proposed schedule, the first China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project in the power evacuation and transmission sector has started commercial operations.
According to an official press release, the project’s “660 kV HVDC [high voltage direct current] Matiari – Lahore Transmission Line has successfully achieved its commercial operation date on 01 Sep 2021 as per agreed timeline between National Transmission and Despatch Company Ltd (NTDC) and Pak Matiari-Lahore Transmission Line Company (PMLTC).”
In Pakistan, the project has ensured reliable power supply to 9.3 million families. Several power tests on various voltage levels were successfully completed prior to its commercial operation.
Engr. Azaz Ahmad, Managing Director of NTDC, praised the Chinese company for completing the project on schedule. After successfully crossing several bridges, he stated that the first 660 kV HVDC Matiari Lahore Transmission Line will add stability to the NTDC transmission network.
Pak-Matiari Lahore Transmission Company (Pvt) Limited completed the 878-kilometer, 4000-MW project on a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis for a 25-year tenure. The project will transport electricity from new producing units in the south, including Thar coal-fired power plants.
