KARACHI: In a significant move towards industrial energy independence, local industry leader HubSalt has signed a landmark agreement with China's LIVOLTEK to deploy a hybrid solar and battery storage system at its facility. According to Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan, the engineering, procurement, and construction contract has been awarded to Optimisen Pvt Ltd, which is spearheading the project in collaboration with its Chinese technology partner, LIVOLTEK. The agreement was formalized by LIVOLTEK's Asia Pacific Director, Max Ma, and HubSalt CEO Ismail Suttar. Yasir Mehdi Khan, CEO of Optimisen, was also present on the occasion.
The project involves the installation of a 1.44 MW solar photovoltaic system integrated with a 2.35 MWh battery energy storage system. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce the company's reliance on imported diesel. Speaking at the signing ceremony, HubSalt Chief Executive Officer Ismail Suttar termed the project a transformative step for the company and a benchmark for the wider industrial sector.
Previously operating entirely off-grid on diesel generators, HubSalt will transition to a hybrid energy model. The company estimates the project will displace approximately 360,000 liters of diesel annually, contributing to import substitution and easing pressure on the country's foreign exchange reserves. The environmental impact is also significant, with the project expected to offset more than 2,000 tones of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The initiative may also enable HubSalt to participate in global carbon markets through the generation of verified carbon credits under internationally recognized standards such as Verra and Gold Standard.
The hybrid system is designed to maximize the use of renewable energy, enhance operational reliability, and ensure an uninterrupted power supply. It represents a milestone in Pakistan's industrial energy transition, demonstrating how companies can align operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. LIVOLTEK's Asia Pacific Director Max Ma and the CEO of Optimisen also underscored the significance of the green energy project and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring its completion ahead of schedule. The collaboration is expected to further strengthen LIVOLTEK's presence in Pakistan and highlight its expertise in executing large-scale projects in partnership with Optimisen.