Safeguards at C-5: Agreement okayed by IAEA BoG

ISLAMABAD: In a significant milestone for Pakistan’s energy sector, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors (BoG) on Wednesday unanimously approved the Safeguards Agreement between the IAEA and Pakistan for the Application of Safeguards at Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (C-5).

This important development reflects the international community’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and its adherence to global non-proliferation and safeguards obligations.

Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant will have a gross capacity of 1,200 MW (e). The pressurised water reactor is expected to become operational by 2030. Upon completion, the unit will provide a substantial source of low-carbon electricity to Pakistan’s national grid, contributing to energy security, climate goals, and sustainable economic growth.

Pakistan currently operates six nuclear power plants with a combined installed capacity of 3,530 MW (e), achieving an average capacity factor exceeding 90 percent. Over the past year, nuclear power accounted for 18.3 percent of the national electricity mix and 34 percent of total low-carbon electricity generation.

With more than 100 reactor-years of operational experience, Pakistan maintains a strong record of safe, secure, and fully safeguarded nuclear power operations in line with international standards.

The National Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) report 2024-25 highlights the country’s leading power producers, with Chashma Nuclear Power Station securing the top position and Karachi Nuclear Power Station ranked second.

Pakistan’s nuclear journey began in 2000 with Chashma Unit-1, followed by Unit-2, both built with Chinese cooperation. Their success laid the foundation for Units 3 and 4, which joined the national grid in 2016 and 2017. Together, the four Chashma units have consistently delivered low-cost, low-carbon electricity, earning international recognition for operational excellence.

Looking ahead, construction of Chashma Unit-5, a 1,200 megawatt reactor, is underway, symbolizing Pakistan’s commitment to energy independence, technological progress, and sustainable development.