The National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) said today that it has initiated the construction of a major 220/132kV grid station in Gharo, Sindh, a project aimed at integrating wind-generated power into the national grid and bolstered by a pound 27 million commitment from the German development bank KfW.
Accourding to a NGC report, the Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) is slated for completion within 24 months and is designed to reliably transmit electricity from wind power projects in the Gharo Wind Clusters. Key infrastructure includes the installation of two 250 MVA autotransformers, two 220kV line bays for connection with the Jhimpir and Dhabeji grid stations, and four 132kV line bays dedicated to linking with local wind power facilities.
A formal groundbreaking ceremony at the project site in Thatta marked the official commencement of construction. The foundation stone was laid by NGC”s Deputy Managing Director (AD and M), Engr. Rasheed A. Bhutto, in the presence of Siemens Energy Managing Director, Engr. Nadeem Ali Kazmi, and KfW Country Director, Mr. Sebastin Jacobi.
In statements made during the event, NGC leadership emphasized the project”s strategic significance. Managing Director Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik commended the project team and stressed adherence to deadlines. Engr. Rasheed A. Bhutto reiterated the call for timely completion, highlighting that the Gharo Grid Station will accelerate Pakistan”s renewable energy development, improve system reliability, enhance voltage profiles for both NGC and HESCO networks, and reduce transmission losses.
Representatives from the project”s key partners, Siemens Energy and KfW, also addressed the attendees, reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration with the National Grid Company.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of traditional Sindhi Ajrak and Topi to the guests and the planting of saplings at the site. The event was attended by numerous officials from NGC, including general managers for Project Delivery and Asset Management, alongside contractors, consultants, and other key stakeholders.