Launch of the development of Duiker Phase II and Nasirabad Solar Power Plants in Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan

Prince Rahim Aga Khan launched the development of Duiker Phase II and Nasirabad Solar Power Plants with a combined capacity of 3.6 MWp in Hunza district, Gilgit-Baltistan. NPAK Energy Ltd, a subsidiary of Industrial Promotion Services (IPS), the industrial and infrastructure development arm of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED), is investing $6 million in these projects, with an additional $14 million secured from development partners for energy infrastructure enhancement.

Phase I of the 1MWp Duiker Solar Power Plant commenced operations in November 2023, increasing daily power availability from 10 to 17 hours in summer and 4 to 9 hours in winter for over 11,000 people. Phase II, scheduled for November 2024, will expand capacity to 1.6MWp and battery storage to 1MWh, providing electricity to an additional 8,760 people. Duiker replaces diesel generation, reducing 1,100 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.

A 2MWp Solar Power Plant with 1MWh battery storage will be constructed in Nasirabad, supplying power to 23,400 people and is expected to be commissioned in June 2025.

Over the next five years, NPAK Energy will mobilise additional investments in clean, sustainable electricity sources across Hunza and surrounding areas, addressing the region’s energy deficit and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. The company aims to improve public service delivery through a sustainable, self-reliant utility operation that catalyses economic opportunities, job creation and models an innovative public-private partnership for sustainable development.

By Metrine Papa

Regional Communications Officer, East Africa