Agreement inked for transition of power distribution networks

PESHAWAR: The Centre for Intelligence Systems and Network Research (CISNR), University of Engineering and Technology, Peshawar, on Friday signed a grant agreement for the transition of power distribution networks.

The agreement is part of the GIZ-commissioned project “Digitalisation and Decarbonisation of Power Distribution Networks,” funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Germany.

An official communique said the initiative was aimed at enhancing electricity supply, reducing system losses, and optimizing operations through the integration of technologies and information systems. “This will help in making the grid more efficient and climate-friendly,” said the communique.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from GIZ and CISNR, including Wolf Gang, Country Head of GIZ Pakistan, Jens Brinkmann, project manager, GIZ Pakistan, Kim Ursina Brinkmann, Consultant GIZ Pakistan, Khadija Bano, Kashif Zahoor from GIZ’s project; Cluster Coordinator for Energy, Climate Change and Just Transition, as well as Prof Dr Gul Muhammad Khan, Director CISNR, and his team. The event highlighted the role

of international collaboration in innovation and energy efficiency.

Following the signing, the GIZ delegation received a briefing on CISNR’s work in AI and IoT applications. The delegation was given a tour of the center’s facilities, where they observed projects focused on smart grid technologies, disaster management, precision agriculture, water quality, and climate change products. These advancements are expected to contribute to modernizing the country’s power distribution systems.

The agreement, set to conclude by the end of 2026, marks a step toward integrating technologies into Pakistan’s power infrastructure.

The delegation explored opportunities for future collaboration with CISNR on green skills and engaging academia for change among youth.He acknowledged the role of CISNR in developing skills through solutions and emphasised the need for awareness in students and academic institutions towards climate issues and energy challenges.Later, Prof Dr Gul Muhammad Khan presented souvenirs and a university shield to the delegation.