The local Al-Fajr Power, set up to implement and operate a 10.5-MW hydroelectric power station near Gilgit in north Pakistan, has invited subcontractors to prequalify for work on the project.

Shareholders behind the firm are the local Al-Fajr International, the UK's Biwater, which will be the turnkey contractor, Midlands Power International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of UK distribution company Midlands Electricity, and the Commonwealth Development Corporation.

Work has been divided into four packages:

civil works, including intake, approach canal, a 7-kilometre power channel and a power house

design, supply, installation and commissioning of electromechanical equipment, including two Pelton turbines and associated generators, switchgear, controls and transformers

design, supply and installation of the transmission line to Gilgit town

design, supply and installation of the distribution substation in Gilgit

Invitations to bid will be sent out in August or September. The company has applied to the European Investment Bank for a loan through the government of Pakistan's private sector energy development fund, to be used as part of the financing for the packages.