The Future of Renewable Energy in Pakistan
By: Zarar Haroon Khokhar
As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions to combat climate change, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture in its energy landscape. With its abundant natural resources, the country has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and addressing the pressing issues of energy security and environmental sustainability. Significant advancements in renewable energy technologies—especially in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power—are paving the way for a greener future in Pakistan.
Pakistan is blessed with high solar irradiance, receiving an average of 5.3 kWh/m² of solar radiation per day. This makes solar energy one of the most promising renewable resources for the country. In recent years, Pakistan has made substantial strides in harnessing solar power, with initiatives such as the Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park in Bahawalpur, Punjab, which is one of the largest solar farms in the world with a capacity of 1,000 MW.
Advancements in solar technology have made solar panels more efficient and affordable, leading to increased adoption across the country. The cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules has decreased significantly, making solar energy a viable option for both urban and rural areas. The government’s Alternative and Renewable Energy Policy aims to increase the share of renewable energy in Pakistan’s total power generation to 30% by 2030, with solar playing a key role.
Solar energy is also being used for off-grid applications, providing electricity to remote areas that are not connected to the national grid. Solar-powered water pumps and home lighting systems are improving the quality of life in rural communities, reducing dependence on expensive and polluting diesel generators.
Pakistan’s coastal regions and mountainous areas offer ideal conditions for wind energy generation. The country has an estimated wind power potential of over 50,000 MW, particularly in the Sindh and Balochistan provinces. The development of wind farms has gained momentum, with projects like the Jhimpir Wind Corridor in Sindh, which hosts several wind power plants with a combined capacity of over 1,200 MW.
Technological advancements in wind turbine design and manufacturing have increased efficiency and reduced costs, making wind energy an attractive option for power generation. The installation of modern wind turbines capable of generating more power from the same amount of wind has contributed to the growth of the wind energy sector in Pakistan.
The government’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its support for wind power projects, offering incentives such as tax exemptions and favorable tariffs to attract investment. As part of the effort to diversify the energy mix, the wind energy sector is expected to expand, providing a reliable and sustainable source of electricity.
Hydroelectric power has been a cornerstone of Pakistan’s energy sector for decades, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s electricity generation. Pakistan’s topography, with its rivers and mountainous regions, is ideally suited for hydropower development. Major projects such as the Tarbela and Mangla dams have long been central to Pakistan’s energy supply, providing both electricity and water for irrigation.
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on expanding hydroelectric capacity, with projects like the Diamer-Bhasha Dam and the Mohmand Dam expected to add thousands of megawatts to the national grid. These projects not only generate electricity but also play a crucial role in water management, flood control, and agriculture, which are vital for Pakistan’s economy.
Small and micro-hydropower projects are also being developed to provide electricity to remote areas, promoting rural development and reducing reliance on imported fuels. The adoption of run-of-the-river hydro projects, which have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional dam-based systems, is gaining traction as a sustainable alternative.
Despite the potential and progress, Pakistan faces several challenges in fully realizing its renewable energy ambitions. One of the main obstacles is the lack of infrastructure and grid connectivity, which limits the integration of renewable energy into the national grid. Upgrading the transmission and distribution network is essential to accommodate the fluctuating supply of solar and wind power and ensure a stable energy supply.
Financing remains a critical challenge, with renewable energy projects requiring significant investment. Encouraging public-private partnerships, securing international funding, and implementing favorable policies will be crucial to attracting investment in the renewable energy sector. Regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic delays also need to be addressed to create a conducive environment for the growth of renewables.
The future of renewable energy in Pakistan is promising, with the potential to transform the country’s energy landscape and contribute to economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability. By leveraging its natural resources, investing in advanced technologies, and implementing supportive policies, Pakistan can become a regional leader in renewable energy.
The government’s commitment to increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix, combined with the private sector’s role in driving innovation and investment, will be key to achieving this vision. As the world moves towards a low-carbon future, Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy will play a vital role in addressing global climate challenges and securing a sustainable energy future for its people.
In conclusion, the advancements in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power offer a pathway to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Pakistan. By embracing these technologies and addressing the challenges, Pakistan can harness its renewable energy potential and pave the way for a greener, more prosperous nation.
