Burj Power and Harbin Electric Ink Deal for 500MW Coal Plant

Taking an initiative for low cost power generation, Burj Power Corp (Burj) is developing the first phase of a 500 (4×125) MW power plant at Port Qasim Karachi with Harbin Electric. Burj Power is a UAE based power project development and advisory firm developing projects in key markets of Middle East, Asia and Africa. It is also developing three wind power projects in Pakistan. The Company is a part of the Burj Capital Group, which is also involved in investment banking, retail, agriculture, and oil and gas sectors.

The agreement included the formal engagement of Harbin Electric International Co Ltd (Harbin) by Burj as the technical partner in the development of the project. Harbin is one of the biggest power engineering, manufacturing and construction groups in China and has a proven track record of EPC and related supplies/manufacturing for thermal and renewable power plants internationally.

Harbin has an established base of over 30,000 MW of thermal power plants and was also the EPC contractor of recently completed Bin Qasim CCPP that was producing 560 MW for Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC).

The Port Qasim Authority has reserved the land for the project near its upcoming coal and clinker terminal. This project will not only bring employment in the area but will also provide long-term business to the coal terminal. The first phase of 125 MW is being discussed with KESC, which will likely purchase electricity from the power plant. This will help Karachi in reducing the cost of power as well as its shortage in the city.

The project will utilise the latest pollution control technology to minimize emissions. The project was welcomed by all who were present as a significant step for bringing foreign investment into Pakistan in a sector that would help this country achieve its real potential. Shahzad Qasim CEO of Burj Power said,

“Using coal as a fuel for power generation is essential to bring down the cost of electricity in the country. Burj Power hopes to make a contribution in this effort.” Saad Zaman Chairman of Burj Capital said,

“We are pleased to be one of the early movers in promoting a coal fired power project in Pakistan. Bringing down energy cost is a key issue and we do need to focus on diversifying our energy fuel mix and on moving away from fuel oil dependency”

Ge Xin CMO of Harbin said,

“Harbin is pleased to have signed the document to become a member of the team being led by Burj Power to develop this important power project for Pakistan.”