Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has described the installation of the dome at the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant as an important step towards Pakistan’s energy independence, economic growth and environmental sustainability. Speaking at the dome placement ceremony on Tuesday, the prime minister said the country would use its natural resources, technology and human capital to build a more prosperous and resilient future.
The milestone marks significant progress in the construction of the nuclear power project, which is being developed with Chinese cooperation. With a planned generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts, the facility is expected to begin producing electricity in September 2030.
PM Calls for Energy Independence and Economic Growth
Addressing the ceremony, Shehbaz Sharif said the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant represented much more than a construction project. He described it as a commitment to providing Pakistan with clean, reliable and affordable electricity.
According to the prime minister, nuclear energy can help reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuels and protect the economy from fluctuations in international energy prices.
He said a stable electricity supply was essential for supporting industries, hospitals, educational institutions and households. Greater energy security would also help create favourable conditions for investment and economic development.
Recalling his commitment at the project’s groundbreaking ceremony in July 2023, Shehbaz said Pakistan would build its future through hard work and continued efforts rather than waiting for others.
He expressed satisfaction that the dome had been installed less than three and a half years after the groundbreaking, ahead of schedule. He also voiced confidence that the project could be commissioned earlier than originally planned.
Nuclear Energy’s Role in Pakistan’s Electricity Supply
Pakistan’s existing nuclear power infrastructure is already making a significant contribution to electricity generation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Chairman said the country’s nuclear power plants were safely and efficiently generating 3,530 megawatts of electricity.
He added that nuclear generation was helping Pakistan avoid approximately 15 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
Nuclear energy currently contributes around 16.6% of Pakistan’s total electricity generation, despite accounting for only 8.6% of the country’s installed power capacity.
Its contribution increases to approximately 26% during winter, highlighting its importance in maintaining the national electricity supply.
The addition of the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant is expected to strengthen this contribution further by adding another 1,200MW of generation capacity once operational.
Project Expected to Generate 1,200MW by 2030
The Chashma-5 project is being developed in Mianwali with cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese institutions.
Once completed, the facility will have the capacity to generate 1,200 megawatts of electricity. According to the project timeline announced at the ceremony, commercial electricity production is expected to begin in September 2030.
The installation of the dome represents an important construction milestone, reflecting progress in the development of the nuclear facility.
The prime minister congratulated the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, China Atomic Energy Authority, China National Nuclear Corporation, contractors, engineers, financial institutions and other stakeholders involved in the project.
He also acknowledged the people of Mianwali for hosting the major national development initiative.
Pakistan-China Cooperation Strengthens Through Chashma-5
Shehbaz Sharif described the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant as another lasting symbol of the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
He said it was the seventh nuclear power unit China had helped Pakistan construct, demonstrating the consistency of cooperation between the two countries.
The prime minister expressed gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Chinese government and China National Nuclear Corporation for their continued support.
He also recognised the contributions of Chinese engineers and their Pakistani counterparts in advancing the project.
Referring to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Shehbaz said it would create additional economic opportunities, strengthen bilateral relations and support development in both countries.
He expressed hope that the nuclear facility would remain a symbol of the two nations’ shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity.
PM Links Energy Security With National Stability
The prime minister also highlighted the connection between national security and economic progress.
He said Pakistan, as a climate-vulnerable country, had a responsibility to pursue energy solutions that support development while protecting the environment.
Shehbaz also acknowledged the role of the armed forces under Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in maintaining national security and stability.
Referring to the country’s experience during Marka-e-Haq, he praised the professionalism and determination of the armed forces. He said a secure environment was necessary to attract investment, revive economic activity and accelerate social development.
The prime minister also appreciated Field Marshal Munir’s support for the government’s economic revival initiatives.
A Step Towards a More Reliable Energy Future
The installation of the dome at Chashma-5 marks an important stage in Pakistan’s efforts to expand its nuclear energy capacity.
With a planned output of 1,200MW, the project is expected to strengthen electricity generation, reduce reliance on imported fuels and support the country’s long-term energy security.
As Pakistan continues to face economic and environmental challenges, expanding reliable low-carbon electricity sources remains an important part of its development strategy.
If completed according to the announced timeline, the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant will become another major addition to Pakistan’s energy infrastructure, while further strengthening its strategic cooperation with China.
