The OPEC Fund for International Development is extending a $72 million loan for Mohmand Multipurpose Dam Project, a major hydropower complex that will contribute to Pakistan’s energy security, increase sustainable water supply for agriculture and human consumption and improve resilience to floods.
While boosting Pakistan’s capacity to produce clean, renewable energy, the dam will also contribute to the socio-economic development of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan’s third largest region, where nearly 80 percent of the population lives in rural areas.
Aftab Ahmad Khokher, Ambassador of Pakistan to Austria, and OPEC Fund Director-General Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa signed the loan agreement in Vienna on Thursday.
“We are proud of our strong and over 40-year cooperation with Pakistan,” Dr. Alkhalifa said: . The Mohmand Multipurpose Dam will help tap Pakistan’s huge hydropower potential, boost agricultural production and strengthen local communities’ environmental resilience.”
The Mohmand Multipurpose Dam Project aligns with the national priorities of Pakistan Vision 2025 development strategy. Total project cost is US$2.2 billion and will be co-financed with the Islamic Development Bank, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and the Saudi Fund for Development, while the government of Pakistan is contributing close to a US$ 1 billion through its own resources and proceeds from a Green Eurobond issued last year.
Upon completion the plant will add 800 MW to Pakistan’s installed hydro power capacity and generate nearly 2,8 GWh electricity per year. The reservoir will have a storage capacity of 1,594 million cubic metres and provide potable water to Peshawar city, the region’s capital.
The OPEC Fund has partnered with Pakistan since 1976 and has so far provided US$ 925 million financing in public and private sector loans, trade finance and grants funding to support over 65 operations in energy generation, industry, transport & storage, education, water supply and sewerage and multiple sectors.