Pakistan’s Path to Energy Independence Through Solar PV
Pakistan’s electricity generation is heavily dependent on fossil fuels and nuclear power, which together accounted for over 67% of the total electricity produced in the fiscal year 2023. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey (2023-24), thermal sources contributed 48.57%, while nuclear power added another 18.65%. This reliance on non-renewable energy sources is not only environmentally unsustainable but also economically burdensome. The remaining electricity was generated from hydropower (28.11%) and renewable sources (4.66%), highlighting a significant gap in the country’s transition toward sustainable energy.
In March 2024, the cumulative installed solar PV capacity in Pakistan reached 1.82 GW, as reported by the same economic survey. This figure indicates that solar PV technology has matured in the country, and there is considerable potential to scale up its deployment. By increasing the installed solar PV capacity, Pakistan can move closer to energy independence, reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels, and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. This shift would create a win-win situation for both the economy and the environment.
From a financial perspective, Pakistan continues to face substantial costs due to its reliance on petroleum products and crude oil. In the fiscal year 2024, the country imported 11 million tonnes of these products, valued at USD 8.4 billion. Similarly, during FY 2023, imports amounted to 6.1 million tonnes worth over USD 5.7 billion. These figures underscore the heavy economic burden imposed by fossil fuel dependence. It is imperative for Pakistan to redirect its energy investments toward expanding solar PV capacity to meet current and future electricity demands.
According to the World Bank, less than 1% of Pakistan’s geographical area could be used for solar PV power generation to fulfill the country’s electricity needs. Furthermore, the bank highlights that expanding renewable energy could reduce electricity prices, lower emissions, and save USD 5 billion over the next two decades. Globally, countries and companies are exploring innovative ways to increase their solar PV installations. For example, the solar PV tunnel near Antwerp, Belgium, features 16,000 panels generating 3.3 GWh annually. In Switzerland, Sun-Ways uses railway tracks for solar panel installations, demonstrating how underutilized spaces can be transformed into energy generators.
France has also taken bold steps by making it mandatory for parking facilities with 80 or more spaces to install solar PV panels on rooftops. This initiative aims to generate 11 GW of solar PV capacity, equivalent to avoiding the construction of 10 nuclear reactors. By optimizing available space, France is reducing its reliance on nuclear power and enhancing its renewable energy portfolio.
Pakistan can draw inspiration from these global examples. The country could mandate solar PV installations on all parking lots and utilize its railway infrastructure for solar deployments. Imagine railway stations equipped with solar panels on their roofs and tunnels covered with solar PV panels. Even the space between railway tracks could be used for solar installations. If Belgium and Switzerland can implement such projects, so can Pakistan.
By leveraging existing infrastructure, Pakistan can exponentially increase its solar PV capacity. Parking lots, railway stations, and tracks offer excellent opportunities for deploying solar technology and maximizing the use of available space. With the right policies and investments, Pakistan has the potential to transform its energy landscape and move toward a sustainable future.
In conclusion, Pakistan possesses significant potential to generate clean electricity through solar PV technology. The technology is already mature in the country, and the key lies in utilizing existing infrastructure more effectively. By adopting innovative approaches and learning from global examples, Pakistan can take meaningful steps toward energy independence and a cleaner, more sustainable future.
