ISLAMABAD: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors has unanimously approved the Safeguards Agreement for Unit 5 of Pakistan’s Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (C-5), marking a significant milestone for the country’s energy sector.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar, welcomed the approval on social media platform X, stating: “IAEA approval of Safeguards Agreement for Chashma Unit 5 (C-5) marks a key milestone for Pakistan’s energy future — underscoring global trust in our nuclear safety, security, nonproliferation, and peaceful nuclear program.”
According to the Pakistan Foreign Office, the agreement reflects the international community’s continued confidence in Pakistan’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and compliance with global non-proliferation and safeguards obligations.
Unit 5, a pressurized water reactor with a gross capacity of 1,200 MW(e), is expected to become operational by 2030.
Upon completion, it will provide a substantial source of low-carbon electricity to Pakistan’s national grid, supporting energy security, climate targets, 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%.
Over the past year, nuclear power accounted for 18.3% of the national electricity mix and 34% 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 Foreign Office emphasized.
