QUETTA: UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, on Tuesday handed over 48 solar-powered public facilities worth approximately PKR 1 billion ($3.5 million) to the Government of Balochistan, marking a major step toward sustainable energy solutions for public institutions in the province.
The initiative provides clean, reliable and cost-effective solar energy to key public facilities, including schools, universities, healthcare centres and technical training institutes, particularly in refugee-hosting districts.
Implemented during 2024–2025 with the support of international donors — Global Affairs Canada, Germany’s Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Kingdom of the Netherlands — the project addresses long-standing challenges such as unreliable grid electricity, frequent power outages and the high operational costs of diesel generators.
Among the facilities solarised under the project is the Bolan Medical Complex, which received support through UNHCR’s private-sector partner, LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd.
The official handover ceremony was held at the Chief Minister’s Office in Quetta and was attended by Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti, UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Yahya, UNHCR Representative in Pakistan Philippa Candler, Head of UNHCR’s Quetta Office Tesfaye Bekele, along with senior government and United Nations officials.
By transitioning critical public institutions to renewable energy, the initiative ensures uninterrupted power supply, reduces dependence on the national grid and significantly lowers recurring energy costs. These improvements are expected to enhance the quality and consistency of education and healthcare services across the province.
Speaking on the occasion, UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Yahya praised the project’s impact and acknowledged Pakistan’s 45-year commitment to hosting Afghan refugees. He stressed the importance of sustained international solidarity with refugee communities while continuing support for host populations.
UNHCR Representative Philippa Candler underscored the importance of reliable energy for maintaining public services and strengthening institutions that serve both Afghan refugees and host communities.
“As UNHCR, we deeply value this compassion and continue to encourage that the needs, dignity and protection of refugees remain central, while we jointly strengthen services for all,” she said.
The solarised facilities are expected to benefit nearly two million people annually, including students, teachers, healthcare workers, patients, refugees and members of host communities.
In addition to improving service delivery, the initiative contributes to climate action by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, supporting provincial and national climate goals in one of Pakistan’s most climate-vulnerable regions.
