CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz inaugurates Nestlé Pakistan’s $4.5M biomass steam plant

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurates Nestlé Pakistan’s $4.5 million biomass steam plant in Sheikhupura, boosting renewable energy, cutting emissions, and reinforcing Pakistan’s ambitions for a sustainable industrial future.

Imran Malik – MediaBites

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday inaugurated Nestlé Pakistan’s Biomass Steam Plant in Sheikhupura, marking a significant step toward cleaner industrial energy and reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to sustainability and climate action in Pakistan.

The stone-laying ceremony brought together senior officials from the Punjab government and Nestlé Pakistan’s leadership, including CEO and Managing Director Jason Avanceña, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Sheikh Waqar Ahmad, and Head of Technical Faisal Nadeem.

Following the ceremony, the Nestlé Pakistan leadership team also called on Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, where discussions focused on the company’s continued investments, sustainability initiatives, and support for Pakistan’s industrial and environmental development.

Backed by an investment of $4.5 million, the Biomass Steam Plant is a key component of Nestlé Pakistan’s broader renewable energy strategy and supports the company’s global commitment to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The project also complements Nestlé Pakistan’s previously announced investment commitment of PKR 17 billion (approximately $60 million) for the 2026–2028 period, unveiled during the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year.

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Once operational, the biomass facility will generate 30 tons of steam per hour by using agricultural waste as fuel, replacing conventional fossil fuel-based energy with a cleaner, renewable alternative.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised Nestlé Pakistan for contributing to the country’s industrial growth while promoting environmental sustainability. She said the biomass steam plant reflects Pakistan’s increasing focus on the circular economy and renewable energy solutions.

The chief minister noted that the initiative aligns closely with the Punjab government’s priorities of environmental protection, cleaner air, and sustainable industrial development. She added that projects of this nature would help address climate challenges while encouraging responsible industrial practices across the province.

Speaking at the event, Nestlé Pakistan CEO and Managing Director Jason Avanceña described the project as a major milestone in the company’s journey toward cleaner manufacturing.

“The Biomass Plant in Sheikhupura is an important step in our journey towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing cleaner manufacturing,” he said.

According to Avanceña, the facility will utilize nearly 72,000 tons of agricultural residue annually, reducing an estimated 24,345 tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year. He added that the project is also expected to generate annual fuel cost savings of approximately $2.15 million while supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving air quality in Punjab.

Highlighting the broader impact of the initiative, Sheikh Waqar Ahmad, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Nestlé Pakistan, said the biomass steam plant demonstrates how public-private partnerships can accelerate Pakistan’s transition toward cleaner energy.

He said reducing dependence on fossil fuels while making productive use of agricultural residue will strengthen industrial competitiveness and support the country’s environmental goals.

The project contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by promoting lower-emission energy production and more responsible resource utilization.

Nestlé Pakistan said it remains committed to expanding sustainable manufacturing practices, creating shared value for local communities, and supporting Pakistan’s renewable energy and climate objectives through continued investment and innovation.