Prince Rahim Aga Khan launched the development of Duikar Phase II and solar power plants in Hunza Nasirabad today, June 10. The total capacity of the projects is 3.6 megawatt peak (MWp).

Phase I of the project has a generation capacity of 1 MWp with a 0.6 megawatt-hour (MWh) storage capacity and has been operational since November 2023, enabling over 11,000 people to have electricity from 10 to 17 hours in the summer and from 4 to 9 hours during the winter.

Phase II of the project is expected to expand generation capacity by 60 percent to 1.6 MWp and storage capacity by 40 percent to 1 MWh, providing electricity to an additional 8,760 people. The project is also significant in terms of reducing carbon emissions as it replaces diesel power generation, reducing the equivalent of 1,100 metric tons of CO2.

Additionally, a 2 MWp solar power plant with 1 MWh of battery storage will also be constructed in Nasirabad. This will supply power to an additional 23,400 people. The Nasirabad Solar Power Plant is expected to be commissioned in June 2025.

NPAK Energy Ltd. is investing $6 million in these projects. The Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED) has secured an additional $14 million from development partners for more energy projects in the region.