Hunza: The European Union (EU), Aga Khan Foundation and NPAK Energy marked major progress in strengthening electricity services in Hunza, with the commissioning of the first phase of a major electricity loss-reduction programme and the groundbreaking of the rehabilitation of the 3 MW Misgar Hydropower Plant.
The initiatives are being implemented under the Energy Plus Project. With funding from the European Union (EU), the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and NPAK Energy in partnership with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Energy Plus Project focuses on fostering a climate-resilient and low-carbon economy and society in northern Pakistan.
Strengthening Hunza’s Electricity Network
Under the Loss Reduction Programme – Phase I, NPAK Energy has upgraded critical transmission, distribution and metering infrastructure across Hunza, including a new substation and transformer, 10 transformer substations, 55 upgraded transformers, 25.3 km of transmission lines, 86.5 km of distribution lines and 460 km of service lines, alongside the installation of approximately 9,000 energy meters.
The investment is already producing significant improvements across the electricity network. System losses have declined from 47% to approximately 15%, while voltage at consumer premises has improved from around 90–130V to 200–220V. Electricity supply has increased and system tripping has been substantially reduced.
The programme is also strengthening the transparency and accuracy of electricity metering and billing. A new Energy Meter Laboratory has been established to test electromechanical, digital, PLC and smart meters, providing a mechanism for addressing defective, disputed or potentially tampered meters.
NPAK Energy will shortly introduce a new billing system aimed at further improving billing accuracy, transparency and customer service.
“Reliable and sustainable energy is fundamental to the development of communities and local economies. What we are seeing in Hunza is partnership in practice, improving the network so that electricity reaches consumers more efficiently, while investing in renewable energy to increase generation. The European Union is proud to support these efforts alongside NPAK Energy, the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and local communities,” said Mr Raimundas Karoblis, EU Ambassador to Pakistan.
The Secretary of the Water and Power Department, Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr Iftikhar Alam, said:
“The Government appreciates the work of AKDN, particularly NPAK, and will extend all possible support for the successful implementation of this project. Reliable electricity is vital for the economic and social development of Gilgit-Baltistan. The progress under the Energy Plus Project and the rehabilitation of the Misgar Hydropower Plant demonstrate the value of strong collaboration in strengthening energy infrastructure and ensuring a more reliable and sustainable electricity supply for the people of Hunza.”
Unlocking Hunza’s Renewable Energy Potential
The visit also marked the groundbreaking of the rehabilitation of the 3 MW Misgar Hydropower Plant, the largest hydropower plant in Hunza.
The plant is currently operating at approximately 30% capacity factor, significantly below its potential, as key civil infrastructure has deteriorated over time. The rehabilitation will focus on the plant’s two water conveyance channels and forebay structures, together with the necessary civil, engineering and technical works.
By restoring the performance of the existing hydropower asset, the project will increase renewable electricity generation within Hunza, helping improve electricity availability, ease pressure on the existing supply system and strengthen reliability for consumers.
“Our focus at NPAK Energy is to translate investment into tangible improvements for the people we serve. The reduction in losses, improved voltage and greater reliability of the network demonstrate what can be achieved through targeted infrastructure investment. At the same time, rehabilitating Misgar will allow us to unlock more of Hunza’s own renewable energy potential. Together, these initiatives are helping build a more reliable, efficient and sustainable electricity system for Hunza,” said Naveed Khan, Acting CEO of NPAK Energy.
“Reliable and affordable electricity is a foundation for development, powering essential services, livelihoods and new opportunities. By strengthening Hunza’s energy systems and harnessing its renewable potential, we can amplify development gains and build a more resilient and prosperous future,” said Irshad Khan Abbasi, Programme Advisor, Rural Development, Aga Khan Foundation, Pakistan.
The EU, AKF, NPAK Energy and the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with local communities and development partners to improve energy services, strengthen system efficiency and unlock the region’s renewable energy potential.
