Moot for benefits to communities hosting power projects

At the Sindh Energy and Climate Conference on November 3, participants called for reforms to ensure communities near power projects gain better access to electricity and share in economic benefits. Business Recorder reported that research presented at the event found only 16 per cent of households near 36 independent power producers, with combined capacity of about 1,800 megawatts, were connected to the national grid.

Speakers also urged mandatory corporate social responsibility contributions, stronger local consultation and oversight, and greater provincial authority over electricity decisions. Community representatives described shortages, environmental harm and limited employment around energy developments, while participants backed microgrids and minigrids for underserved areas. The two-day conference, which concludes on November 4, is focused on energy access, climate justice and a fairer transition in Sindh.