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Poonch power for Pakistan

Gulpur, Pakistan

Project Updates

After four years of reliable operation, the 102 MW run of-river plant receives its Final Acceptance Certificate, underscoring Pakistan’s progress toward renewable energy independence.

Pakistan faces major challenges in the energy sector due to rising demand and heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Over 50% of the country’s electricity is currently generated from fossil sources such as gas, coal, and oil. Hydropower, however, already plays a key role in the energy mix, contributing around 25% of electricity generation with over 10 GW of installed capacity (as of 2024). The northern regions of Azad Jammu, Kashmir, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offer considerable untapped hydropower potential, thanks to their mountainous terrain and natural river systems.

With the adoption of the updated 10-year Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP 2024–2034) in May 2025, Pakistan is intensifying its focus on renewable energy. Large-scale hydropower projects are seen as essential for a sustainable, secure, and locally sourced energy supply. The goal is to increase the share of water, wind, and solar power, reduce reliance on imports, and foster a competitive electricity market.

A prime example is the Gulpur hydropower plant on the Poonch River in Azad Kashmir. With an installed capacity of 102 MW, it generates more than 460 GWh annually. In December 2015, ANDRITZ was awarded the contract to supply, install, and commission two 51 MW vertical Kaplan turbines, hydraulic steel structures, penstocks, control systems, and other electromechanical equipment.

A highlight of the project is the innovative ANDRITZ HYDRO SXH™ coating, which protects turbine components from high sand content in river water and significantly extends service life.

Since commissioning in March 2020, the plant has operated without interruption. The project concluded successfully in September 2024 with the receipt of the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC). Gulpur stands as a testament to ANDRITZ’s expertise and reliability in delivering sustainable hydropower solutions in Pakistan.