Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant Progressing Rapidly
ISLAMABAD: Work on the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant is progressing at a rapid pace and, upon completion, the project will contribute 1,200 MW of clean, safe, and low-cost electricity to the national grid. General Manager of the Chashma Nuclear Power Complex, Engineer Habib-ur-Rehman, stated that Pakistan aims to increase its nuclear power generation capacity to 8,000 MW, making nuclear energy a reliable component of the country’s sustainable and affordable energy mix.
He was briefing a group of journalists here at Chashma Nuclear Complex. On this occasion, media representatives toured various operational and under-construction units of the facility, where they were briefed on the plant’s performance, safety protocols, technical systems, and environmental standards.
Engineer Habib-ur-Rehman noted that Pakistan is currently among the top 20 nuclear power-producing countries worldwide. The country has six operational nuclear reactors with a total generation capacity of 3,530 MW, which is expected to rise to 4,730 MW after the completion of Chashma-5.
Expansion: MISI purchases shares of Aisha Steel Mills
He explained that the Chashma-5 project is based on the modern Hualong One (HPR1000) design, a third-generation pressurized water reactor. The project is being developed in collaboration with the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). The first concrete was poured on December 30, 2024.
He added that nuclear power is regaining global attention. Several developed nations, including the USA, Japan, Britain, and South Korea, which had previously reduced or planned to phase out nuclear energy, are now renewing their focus on the sector and actively constructing new plants.
The General Manager emphasized that nuclear power is a cost-effective, safe, and environmentally friendly source of electricity. Nuclear power contributed approximately 13% of Pakistan’s electricity supply for the entire calendar year 2024, while in December 2024, its share peaked at approximately 26.5%.
He further stated that projects like Chashma-5 not only help meet the country’s growing energy needs but also promote local industry, technical workforce development, and employment opportunities. It is a major step toward achieving self-reliance in equipment manufacturing and engineering expertise.
He reaffirmed that all available resources are being utilized to make nuclear energy a pillar of national development and self-sufficiency, with the 8,000 MW nuclear capacity goal serving as a key milestone in that vision.
