Pakistan Commences $3.7B Chashma-5 Nuclear Project in Collaboration With China

Photo taken on May 19, 2021 shows Karachi Nuclear Power Plant Unit-2 K-2 in southern Pakistani port city of Karachi. Speaking virtually at the inauguration ceremony of the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant Unit-2 K-2, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said that Friday marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and apart from the ever-strengthening bilateral ties, the people-to-people contacts have also become deep-rooted with the passage of time. (Photo by Str/Xinhua via Getty Images)

The project is expected to generate 1,200 MW of clean energy by 2030, helping Pakistan tackle its chronic power shortages while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

[Islamabad] Pakistan has officially initiated the construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Project Unit-5 (C-5), a $3.7 billion project that marks the beginning of its largest nuclear power plant to date. This milestone reflects a significant advancement in the country’s energy sector.

China is a key partner in building this ambitious project, which is set to become operational by 2030. According to Radio Pakistan, the plant will contribute 1,200 MW of affordable and clean energy to the national grid, increasing Pakistan’s total nuclear energy capacity to 4,760 MW. This addition is expected to support socioeconomic development and alleviate the country’s persistent energy challenges.

The groundbreaking event, marked by the first concrete pour, was attended by several high-profile figures, including Pakistan’s federal minister for planning and development, Ahsan Iqbal; Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong; and Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Chairman Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar, along with other dignitaries from both nations.

Minister Iqbal emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “The C-5 project stands as a testament to the enduring Pak-China friendship.” He also highlighted Pakistan’s need to transition toward a technology-driven economy to address contemporary challenges, adding that the project will deliver cost-effective and reliable electricity to the national grid.

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong highlighted the transformative potential of Chashma-5, noting that it will create up to 40,000 direct and indirect jobs during its peak construction phase. He praised Pakistan’s advantageous position in terms of location, language, and human resources, which he said could complement China’s technological, financial, and market strengths. He also pointed out that China accounted for 41% of Pakistan’s total direct investment over the past five months, despite global economic challenges.

Technological and Economic Benefits
The Chashma-5 facility will feature advanced safety systems, including a third-generation Hualong pressurized water reactor with a double-shell containment structure and a reactor-filtered venting system. Designed for a lifespan of 60 years, the plant aligns with international nuclear safety standards. It will significantly contribute to Pakistan’s energy sustainability by providing clean and reliable power while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader energy strategy, which focuses on diversifying the energy mix through renewable sources like hydropower and nuclear energy to reduce fossil fuel dependency and combat climate change. Independent researcher Asma Khalid highlighted the significance of nuclear energy in fulfilling Pakistan’s international clean energy commitments and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) recently granted the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) a license to construct the facility. According to a PNRA statement, the license was issued following a thorough assessment to ensure compliance with both national and international safety standards.

Strategic and Geopolitical Implications
The Chashma-5 project underscores Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy development and economic self-reliance. Defense analyst Muhammed Bilal Iftikhar Khan described the initiative as a transformative step in addressing Pakistan’s energy crisis, which is rooted in load shedding, over-reliance on fossil fuel imports, and the associated economic and environmental toll.

Khan further noted that this project symbolizes Pakistan’s assertion of sovereignty and technological independence, demonstrating its responsible use of nuclear capabilities for constructive purposes. By expanding nuclear energy production, Pakistan is simultaneously addressing its energy needs and contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.

China’s role in Pakistan’s energy landscape, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has been instrumental in boosting local energy capacity. Khalid acknowledged that CPEC’s renewable and nuclear energy projects have strengthened Pakistan’s indigenous energy production, reducing its reliance on costly fuel imports.

A Message of Responsibility and Sustainability
The Chashma-5 nuclear power project not only aims to resolve Pakistan’s energy shortages but also reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development. The facility will play a pivotal role in diversifying Pakistan’s energy mix and lowering carbon emissions, all while enhancing socioeconomic development.

“This project sends a clear message to the world that Pakistan is a responsible nuclear power committed to using its capabilities for peaceful purposes,” said Khan. “It represents a crucial step toward ensuring sustainable solutions for our people while maintaining autonomy and self-reliance.”

Conclusion
With Chashma-5, Pakistan is set to make significant progress in energy sustainability, economic development, and climate change mitigation. As the largest nuclear power project in the country’s history, it symbolizes both the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China and Pakistan’s commitment to leveraging technology for a better future.