Wärtsilä has been selected to provide a 204MW power plant solution for the Reko Diq copper-gold mining project in Pakistan.

The power plant, featuring 12 Wärtsilä 50 engines and auxiliaries, will ensure a reliable and economical power supply crucial for efficient mining operations.

Wärtsilä will supply the power plant as part of an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract. The plant includes technological features that allow for future conversion of the engines to operate with alternative fuels.

The order, placed by Reko Diq Mining Company, was recorded in Wärtsilä's books in the second quarter of 2025.

The contract scope also encompasses full heat recovery boilers to facilitate the addition of a Flexicycle (steam turbine).

Designed to integrate with renewable energy sources, the plant also has provisions for future grid connection. The delivery of Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled to begin in late 2026.

Reko Diq Mining Company project director Tim Cribb stated: “We are pleased to have a reliable and collaborative partnership with Wärtsilä on this considerable project. Wärtsilä's technical expertise and strong local presence in Pakistan are highly valued.”

The Reko Diq project, one of the world's largest undeveloped copper-gold sites, is located in the remote region of Balochistan.

The project is expected to bring socio-economic benefits to local communities and Pakistan by boosting local employment rates and investments in community initiatives.

Wärtsilä Energy energy business director Alexandre Eykerman stated: “Mining is a key sector with one of the largest growth potentials for Pakistan's future. Projects like Reko Diq, with large gold and copper reserves, are crucial for unlocking the sector's potential and helping Pakistan to improve its GDP.

“The country possesses vast untapped mineral resources, including copper, gold, lithium and rare earth elements, which are crucial for global energy transitions and technological advancements.”

In a related development, Wärtsilä secured a contract in September 2024 to supply engines and auxiliary equipment for a new power plant at the Boto gold mine in Senegal.

The contract, awarded by Africa Power Services, includes the delivery of six Wärtsilä 32 engines.