Energy project developer Oracle Power, together with its JV company Oracle Energy and China Electric Power Equipment and Technology (CET), has announced the commencement of the grid interconnection study for its proposed 1.3 GW renewable power plant at Jhimpir in the Sindh Province of Pakistan.
The company have engaged Power Planners International with expertise in power system analysis and planning, particularly in the domain of grid interconnection studies for renewable energy projects, to undertake the study.
The study encompasses a comprehensive evaluation for 1.3 GW of renewable power, including an 800 MW solar project, a 500 MW wind project, and a "suitable" battery energy storage system (BESS). The plant aims to export the generated renewable power to the National Grid, with connection facilitated through the Network of National Transmission & Dispatch Company (NTDC).
An existing 220 kV Jhimpir-II Grid station or any other grid interconnection scheme identified in collaboration with NTDC will facilitate power evacuation, factoring in the latest load forecast and NTDC's future transmission plans.
Naheed Memon, CEO of Oracle, commented on the development, "We are delighted to announce the initiation of the Interconnection Study for our renewable power plant in Jhimpir. This Study will complete our feasibility study package for the Power Plant and will be instrumental in propelling us into the FEED stage".
"Additionally, it will help to lay the groundwork for future confirmation of potential off-take and financing arrangements. Through strategic partnerships and meticulous planning, we aim to optimize the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid, contributing to the country's energy security and environmental sustainability", he added.
The grid study is expected to culminate in the finalization of the grid interconnection scheme, determining voltage levels, step-up transformer specifications, interconnecting distribution lines, and necessary extensions or reinforcements to the nearby system network.