ISLAMABAD: The United States Congress has released $ 280 million aid for Pakistan that is amid at assisting Pakistan in energy sector, said a statement issued by the US Embassy on Friday.

The funds will support improvements to Mangla Dam and infrastructure support and due diligence work on the Kurram Tangi Dam project.

This is the latest example of the United States' long-term and enduring support for Pakistan's energy sector and for the people of Pakistan.

Relieving Pakistan's energy crisis is a top priority for our civilian assistance program. The US approach consists of high-impact projects aimed at increasing Pakistan's energy resources and helping power sector institutions more effectively meet the country's energy needs.

The United States funds large-scale infrastructure efforts that, by 2013, are expected to add 900 megawatts to the national power grid, enough energy to power two million households and businesses. 

Our institutional support ranges from improving the governance of the power sector to strengthening the performance of Pakistan's power distribution companies. We are helping develop new policies to rationalize pricing, reduce subsidies, increase revenues, and improve the distribution of energy resources. We also work with private sector entities and civil society organizations to enhance their role in decision-making and advocacy. 

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