As of August 27, 2025, Pakistan is advancing plans to power Gwadar Port, a cornerstone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with solar energy. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced the initiative, aiming to boost efficiency and address chronic power shortages. By shifting to renewable energy, the port seeks to reduce reliance on costly diesel and unstable grid electricity, marking a significant step toward sustainability.

The meeting, attended by representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Gwadar Port Authority, Quetta Electric Supply Company, and Chinese CPEC partners, established a subcommittee to drive the project. This team will develop solar photovoltaic systems with battery storage and create micro- and macro-solar grids to power critical infrastructure, including water pumps and the 1.2 million gallons per day desalination plant. Additionally, the initiative will support Gwadar’s free zone factories and the international airport, boosting the region’s economic prospects.

The solar project offers significant benefits, especially for Gwadar’s fishing industry, which could save over $1 million annually by replacing diesel with solar power. Moreover, reliable energy will address water scarcity by ensuring consistent operation of pumping and desalination systems, which are critical for local communities. The announcement, made amid discussions on infrastructure resilience, underscores Gwadar’s role as a self-sufficient trade hub under CPEC.