Abdulbari Omar: 69 Billion Afghanis Invested in Electricity in 11 Months
The head of the Afghanistan Electricity Company stated that in the past 11 months, agreements and projects with a total capacity of 1,070 megawatts of domestic electricity generation have either been signed or are ready for signing, with 70% of the investment coming from other countries.
Abdulbari Omar emphasized the neglect of infrastructure projects in the energy sector in previous years and mentioned that the company has taken serious steps towards energy self-sufficiency.
He said, “I would tell you that in the past 11 months, we have invested 69 billion Afghanis. Of this, 70% of the funds have come from abroad. This is another achievement that we have encouraged foreign investors to come to the Afghan market, and they have invested 69 billion in electricity generation alone.”
According to Mr. Omar, Afghanistan currently generates 250 megawatts of domestic electricity and purchases an additional 800 megawatts from Turkmenistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, costing between 250 to 280 million dollars annually.
Mr. Omar further stated that to achieve full energy self-sufficiency, Afghanistan needs 6,000 to 7,000 megawatts of electricity, and if industry grows, this need could rise to 10,000 megawatts.
He added, “Currently, we need between 6,000 and 7,000 megawatts. Once we reach that, we can be 100% self-sufficient. However, if our industrial parks expand and new factories are built, our needs could rise to 10,000 megawatts. This is because we have factories where we have provided electricity to one factory from the power of four provinces.”
The head of the Afghanistan Electricity Company mentioned that utilizing energy from wind, water, gas, coal, and even waste energy production comes with many challenges. However, the company is currently carrying out these projects without relying on the World Bank or other international organizations, using domestic funds and investments from the private sector.
He also pointed out the issue of 450 million Afghanis in debts owed by warlords and former political leaders in Kabul, stressing that, at present, all individuals, from ministers to ordinary citizens, are being treated based on the law. Some ministers even had their electricity cut off due to non-payment of electricity bills.
