Pakistan, a country blessed with diverse landscapes and abundant natural resources, is increasingly turning its attention to renewable energy. With a growing population and rising energy demands, the nation faces a persistent energy crisis. Heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels and outdated infrastructure has resulted in high costs, frequent power outages, and environmental degradation. However, renewable energy resources offer a promising path toward a sustainable, affordable, and cleaner energy future.
The Need for Renewable Energy in Pakistan
Pakistan’s energy sector is heavily dependent on thermal power, primarily fueled by imported oil and gas, which accounts for more than 60% of electricity generation. This dependence not only puts immense pressure on foreign exchange reserves but also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Climate change, already manifesting through rising temperatures, floods, and droughts, further underscores the urgency of transitioning to greener energy solutions.
Renewable energy—clean, indigenous, and sustainable—offers a viable solution to address Pakistan’s energy and environmental challenges.
Abundant Renewable Energy Potential
1. Solar Energy
Pakistan is ideally situated in the sunbelt, receiving sunshine for about 300 days a year. The solar irradiance ranges from 5.3–6.2 kWh/m²/day, making solar power one of the most promising renewable resources. Projects like the Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park in Bahawalpur have already demonstrated the potential of large-scale solar installations. Furthermore, rooftop solar systems are gaining popularity among households and businesses, supported by net-metering policies.
2. Wind Energy
The coastal belt of Sindh and Balochistan, particularly in areas like Gharo, Jhimpir, and Keti Bandar, offers excellent wind potential. Wind corridors in these regions can generate an estimated 50,000 MW of electricity. Pakistan has already installed several wind farms in Jhimpir, contributing clean power to the national grid.
3. Hydropower
Hydropower remains the backbone of Pakistan’s renewable energy sector, contributing about 25–30% of the electricity mix. With rivers flowing from the Himalayas and Karakoram, there is significant untapped potential for both large and small hydropower projects. The Diamer-Bhasha and Dasu dams are examples of ongoing efforts to expand hydropower capacity.
4. Biomass and Biogas
Agriculture is a mainstay of Pakistan’s economy, producing vast amounts of crop residues, animal waste, and other organic matter. These can be harnessed for biogas and biomass energy production, providing clean fuel for rural households and reducing reliance on wood and dung.
Government Initiatives and Policy Framework
The government of Pakistan has launched several initiatives to promote renewable energy development. The Alternative and Renewable Energy Policy 2019 aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the power mix to 30% by 2030. Programs like net metering, green financing, and tariff incentives have encouraged private investment in solar and wind projects. Additionally, international partnerships and funding from institutions like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank are supporting large-scale renewable projects.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite the potential, renewable energy in Pakistan faces several challenges, including:
- Lack of modern infrastructure and grid capacity to integrate variable renewable energy.
- Limited awareness and technical expertise in renewable technologies.
- Regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles that delay project implementation.
- Financing difficulties for small- and medium-scale renewable projects.
Addressing these barriers through reforms, capacity building, and targeted investments is crucial for realizing Pakistan’s renewable energy ambitions.
The Road Ahead
Transitioning to renewable energy is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity. Expanding clean energy sources will reduce the import bill, create green jobs, improve energy security, and help Pakistan meet its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. By leveraging its natural advantages and aligning policies with global best practices, Pakistan can achieve a sustainable and resilient energy future.