Pakistan's hydropower generation crossed the 6,000MW threshold during peak hours, underscoring the growing contribution of water-based electricity to the national grid as higher water releases from reservoirs boosted output across major hydroelectric facilities.

According to a statement issued on Monday, the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) supplied 6,118MW of hydel electricity to the national grid during peak demand hours after increased indent by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) from water reservoirs.

The sharp rise in generation was led by the Tarbela Hydel Power Station, which contributed 2,332MW. Tarbela's fourth extension added a further 1,095MW, reinforcing the facility's central role in the country's renewable energy mix.

Other major installations also recorded significant output. Ghazi Barotha generated 1,160MW, while Mangla contributed 930MW. Warsak and Chashma added 135MW and 101MW respectively. Wapda's network of medium and small hydropower stations collectively produced the remaining 365MW required to take total generation above the 6,000MW mark.

The increase in production comes as hydropower continues to occupy a pivotal place in Pakistan's electricity system. According to Wapda, hydel energy remains the most affordable source of clean and green electricity available in the national grid. The authority said that electricity generated from water resources also plays a broader role in supporting the energy sector by helping lower overall power costs within the system.

The latest figures highlight the importance of reservoir-based generation in meeting national electricity requirements, particularly during periods when water availability allows major hydroelectric projects to operate at higher capacity levels.

With Tarbela, Ghazi Barotha and Mangla accounting for the bulk of output, hydropower remains one of the most significant contributors to Pakistan's renewable energy generation, providing a substantial share of electricity through domestic water resources.