Punjab allocates Rs7b for energy sector

LAHORE: The Punjab government has allocated Rs 7 billion for the energy sector with major emphasis on promotions of renewable energy and building power transmission network in the province. In a major push for accelerating power grid in the province, the Punjab government has earmarked Rs 100 million for the establishment of the Punjab Grid Company. It will be third such entity at the provincial level, following similar initiatives in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Punjab also announced Rs 250 million solarisation of 303 schools for special children. As many as Rs 350 million have been announced under the development budget for solarisation of 100 higher secondary schools. Punjab also announced to start work on the 135MW Taunsa Hydropower project with foreign component of $450 million in addition to launching captive hydropower projects at 10 sites with private investment.