Pakistan’s largest independent power producer, Hub Power Company (Hubco), is set to venture into lithium mining, battery manufacturing and electric vehicle (EV) production, as reported by state media. Established in 1991, Hubco boasts an installed generation capacity of over 3,500 megawatts and is now looking to diversify its operations.
This expansion, facilitated by Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), aims to address the country’s increasing demand for batteries and electric vehicles. A lithium exploration and battery production project is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months, responding to the rising need for rechargeable batteries in mobile phones, laptops, and cars.
According to Radio Pakistan, “Hub Power Company Limited’s exploration of lithium in Pakistan will further enhance the manufacturing potential in the country’s auto industry.” The company is also establishing a manufacturing plant to produce electric vehicles, with plans to roll out 50,000 units annually.
Earlier this year, Hubco’s subsidiary, Mega Motor Company, signed a collaboration agreement with Chinese EV giant BYD Auto Industry to assemble EVs in Pakistan. The EV plant is projected to export 30 to 40 percent of its production to markets in Australia and Africa.
Operating a diverse portfolio that includes oil-fired, coal-based, and hydropower facilities, as well as coal mining, Hubco’s new initiatives are expected to strengthen its market position, create job opportunities, and enhance domestic battery production capacity for electronic devices.