China has expressed a clear interest in Afghanistan’s coal-fired power sector, signaling a potential shift in the region’s energy landscape. The development emerged after a meeting between the Afghan National Electricity Company, known as DABS, and a delegation from the China Chamber of Commerce. The dialogue occurred under the watchful eye of Afghanistan’s energy leadership, led by executive director Mullah Mohammed Hanif Hamza, who received the Chinese representatives to discuss possible collaboration on electricity generation.
During the discussions, the Chinese side conveyed a specific proposal: an investment plan aimed at building and operating coal-fired generation capacity with a total output of 500 megawatts. This figure highlights a sizable entry point for cross-border energy cooperation and suggests a strategic emphasis on near-term capacity expansion within Afghanistan’s power network. The Afghan side described the proposal as a practical opportunity to advance energy security and electrification, reflecting a broader interest in diversifying energy sources and partners.
The Afghan company reported that the Chinese representatives emphasized their prior experience in deploying coal-based power plants in multiple countries. This track record was presented as a credential to reassure Afghan authorities that the equipment and construction know-how could be adapted to Afghanistan’s unique terrain and grid requirements. The message also indicated a willingness to locate and install scalable equipment at locations across the country, contingent on technical assessments and alignment with national standards and regulatory processes.
Looking ahead, DABS indicated that joint technical teams from both nations will undertake a series of feasibility and planning discussions. The goal is to address all operational, financial, and environmental considerations before presenting a detailed package to Afghan authorities for review. The process is expected to cover power plant siting, grid integration, fuel logistics, environmental safeguards, and long-term maintenance plans to ensure reliable service for Afghan consumers while meeting international best practices.
Meanwhile, in a broader regional context, remarks from national leaders have underscored a growing emphasis on energy partnerships as a pathway to greater stability and energy resilience. In late November, the official statements from Chinese leadership highlighted a readiness to collaborate with regional partners to bolster energy security and to support the transition toward cleaner energy options where feasible. The speech showcased a dual objective: maintaining robust energy cooperation with traditional energy sources while pursuing initiatives that reduce emissions and promote sustainable development in the long term. The Afghan engagement sits within this wider framework, signaling that Afghanistan could become part of a broader network of energy projects that balance reliability, affordability, and environmental responsibility.