While consumption of coal has been increasing in power generation in Pakistan, the government needs to pay attention on the effective handling and transportation of coal from sea ports.
As per data of 10th January, 4100MW were generated through coal by power generation companies, which was 40 percent of the total power generated through different sources. On the other hand, the other fuel-based sources of power generation were Gas/RLNG and Furnace Oil that produced 2060MW, and 1600MW, respectively. In the same period, nuclear power plants produced 1200MW while generation from Hydel and renewable sources stood at 590MW and 700MW, respectively, sources said. Engro Power Thar, Port Qasim, China Power and Sahiwal Power use coal for power generation. All of these companies are among the top ten power generation companies in merit order due to their lower per unit cost, making coal the most cost-efficient fuel for power generation, the sources said, adding: "It is expected that usage of coal would keep on increasing in coming years with more coal-based power plants coming online next year."
As per media reports, around 8.0 million tonnes of coal was imported by cement companies every year, while 12 million tons was imported by power plants. If the increase in consumption continues steadily, Pakistan's coal imports may surge to 30 million tonnes/annum soon.
"We expect that the import of coal will register a steep growth in the coming peak season of power generation in the country which will give rise to environmental and health issues if the coal is not handled and transported efficiently," said Muhammad Aqil, an environmental activist.
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