RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES IN PAKISTAN: PAVING A WAY FORWARD

Abstract

Pakistan has 2.83 percent of the world's population, making it the fifth-most
populated country. At 0.37 percent of the world's total, it ranks 35th in energy usage. Per capita, energy
availability is 43W, 1/7th of the world average. Pakistan's installed capacity is 34233 MW, however, it
can only generate 22000 MW against a peak load of 25000 MW, generating a 3000MW power
shortfall. Not using the existing capacity, which is 8000MW larger than the peak load, is a sore issue
for technical, economical, and administrative reasons. Circular debt in the electricity sector stems from
significant reliance on imported petroleum and inefficient financial flow across tiers. The electricity
shortage causes outages and hinders economic progress. The energy problem calls for concrete actions
to alleviate the shortfall. A way ahead is to transition the country's power industry from imported oilbased
thermal
power
plants
to
more
feasible
indigenous
resources,
such
as
renewable
energy
resources,

of which Pakistan is rich and has great exploitation potential. This article surveys the availability of
renewable energy sources, including hydro, solar, wind, and biomass, and their present and prospective
penetration in the total power generating mix, with recommendations. Pakistan can extract 30 GW
from hydropower and 11 GW from wind by 2030. According to estimates, a vast untapped potential of
solar power must be brought into service with biogas as a supplement to meet future power needs. The
comparative analysis has been done by doing a case study on different renewable energy strategies and
techniques adopted by other countries.