LAHORE: A four-member delegation from the World Bank visited the headquarters of the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) on Wednesday to discuss varioushydro extension projects.

Simon Stolp, South Asia region practice manager for energy, led the delegation and held a meeting with Wapda Chairman retired Lt-Gen Sajjad Ghani.

The meeting offered an opportunity for Wapda officials to update the World Bank delegation on the progress of several key hydropower projects financed by the international financial institution. Among the projects discussed were the Dasu Hydropower Project, the Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project, and the Tarbela Floating Solar PanelProject. The operation and performance of the World Bank-funded Tarbela 4th Extension Hydropower Project were examined in det ail.

A highlight of the meeting was the recognition that the Tarbela 4th Extension Hydropower Project has exceeded expectations since its commissioning, generating electricity equivalent to more than its initial capital cost.

This achievement underscores the efficiency and sustainability of these energy projects.

Wapda also presented a comprehensive portfolio of upcoming projects in the hydropower sector, emphasising their potential to contribute to Pakistan`s clean and green energy objectives. The World Bank delegation showed particular interest in exploring opportunities for continued financial support in these endeavors.Mr Ghani expressed his gratitude for the World Bank`s invaluable contribution to harnessing lowcost, clean energy in Pakistan through Wapda projects.

He emphasized the importance of these projects in enhancing Pakistan`s energy infrastructure and their role in addressing the nation`s power needs.

The chairman expressed hope that the World Bank would consider increasing its contribution to support the development of sustainable energy projects in Pakistan, emphasizing the mutual benefits of such cooperation.

This meeting signifies the commitment of both Wapda and the World Bank to continue their collaboration in advancing Pakistan`s energy sector, providing sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to the country`s growing energy demands.