In 2024, Pakistan's electricity consumption presents a diverse mix, with fossil fuels slightly leading the chart at just over 53%, while low-carbon energy sources account for a substantial 46%. Natural gas is a significant contributor among fossil fuels, making up nearly a quarter of the total electricity consumption, followed by coal at about 14%. On the other hand, hydropower represents the largest share within low-carbon sources at nearly 19%, closely followed by nuclear energy at 13%. Solar energy has been growing impressively, now contributing over 10% to the electricity mix. Wind and biofuels make up smaller portions, with wind contributing about 3% and biofuels just over 1%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Pakistan?
Despite these diversifications, the growth of electricity consumption in Pakistan has recently reached a plateau, with the latest figures showing a marginal decrease in electricity use per person, now standing at 727 kWh, slightly below last year’s record of 728 kWh. This stagnation is concerning given the crucial role electricity plays in modern economies. However, there's a silver lining in the progress made with clean electricity; low-carbon electricity generation has increased to 338 kWh per person, marking a notable rise from the previous year, which was 309 kWh per person. This advancement showcases the country's commitment to cleaner energy, though the overall electricity growth remains a pressing challenge.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Pakistan could strategically expand its nuclear and solar capacities. Drawing inspiration from successful regions like France, which generates an impressive 70% of its electricity through nuclear, and California, known for its expansive solar farms producing nearly 29%, could guide Pakistan’s policy decisions favorably. Additionally, learning from Cyprus and Lebanon, where solar energy significantly contributes 23% and 31% respectively, adapting these strategies could lead to considerable achievements. By focusing on scaling up both nuclear and solar technology, Pakistan could robustly bolster its clean energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating their associated environmental impacts.
History
Historically, Pakistan's journey in low-carbon electricity generation showcases phases of growth and decline. The 1990s saw notable variability in hydropower, with significant increases and decreases, highlighting challenges in consistency. The early 2000s brought renewed momentum with increased hydroelectric contributions followed by dips in subsequent years. A positive shift occurred mid-2010s, with nuclear power gaining traction, contributing significantly from 2016 onwards. The recent surge in solar energy, especially in 2023 and 2024, marks a pivotal shift towards diversifying clean energy sources, demonstrating Pakistan's growing commitment to sustainable energy practices. Continued investment and strategic planning in these domains could further facilitate the nation's transition to a low-carbon future.
