Pakistan’s Largest Coal Project Set for Major Expansion

Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) is preparing to launch Phase III of the Thar Block II coal project, a move which could further strengthen Pakistan’s energy security by increasing the use of locally produced coal and reducing reliance on imported fuels.

The announcement came as SECMC and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL) marked seven years of commercial operations at Thar Block II. The integrated mine mouth project, developed through a partnership between the federal and Sindh governments along with local and international partners, achieved its Commercial Operations Date (COD) on July 10, 2019.

Since becoming operational, the Thar Block II mine has expanded its production capacity to 7.6 million tons per annum and supplied more than 38 million tons of indigenous coal. The fuel has enabled EPTL to generate over 27,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity, helping reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported energy sources.

SECMC Chief Executive Officer Amir Iqbal said the company has spent more than a decade working to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security by producing affordable electricity while creating economic opportunities for communities in Tharparkar.

He described Thar coal as a national asset and said the company remains committed to inclusive development as it prepares for the next phase of expansion.

Athar Abrar Khwaja, Chief Executive Officer of EPTL and Engro Energy Limited, said EPTL has consistently remained among the country’s lowest-cost power plants since becoming Pakistan’s first independent power producer to operate on Thar coal.

He added that the company will continue supporting Pakistan’s long-term energy security through reliable power generation using indigenous resources.