In 2025, Pakistan's electricity consumption is predominantly fueled by low-carbon sources, which account for over 64% of the total electricity generation. Within this category, hydropower contributes more than a quarter, solar energy nearly a quarter, and nuclear energy slightly less than this. Wind power makes up around 2.5%, adding to the clean energy mix. On the other hand, fossil fuels still play a significant role, contributing about 36%. Among these, gas makes up just under a fifth, coal accounts for around 15%, and the remaining portion comes from other fossil-based sources. The substantial reliance on low-carbon energy reflects Pakistan's proactive efforts towards cleaner energy solutions, although the country must continue reducing its dependence on fossil fuels to tackle climate change and improve air quality.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Pakistan?
Despite the encouraging shift towards low-carbon electricity, the overall electricity consumption per person in Pakistan has seen a decline in recent years. As of 2025, the total electricity consumption is approximately 636 kWh per person, a decrease from the historical peak of 728 kWh per person recorded in 2023. This 92 kWh drop indicates a worrying stagnation in electricity growth, which could hinder the progress of electrification and technological advancements. Conversely, the consumption of low-carbon electricity has witnessed a positive trajectory, reaching 409 kWh per person, marking a commendable increase of 72 kWh from the previous year's record. This upward trend in clean electricity usage is critical to fostering sustainable development and mitigating the adverse effects of fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, Pakistan should focus on expanding its existing nuclear and solar capacities, given their substantial contribution to the current energy mix. Learning from regions with successful clean energy strategies could prove invaluable. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia have achieved significant shares of nuclear power, with 67% and 66% respectively, showcasing the potential of nuclear energy in the transition to low-carbon electricity. Similarly, emulating the strides made by states such as Nevada, which generates 34% of its electricity from solar, could help Pakistan harness its abundant solar potential effectively. By prioritizing these expansions, Pakistan can ensure a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Pakistan reveals periods of both growth and challenge, particularly across various decades. In the 1990s, hydropower generation saw modest increases until a drop occurred in 1999. The early 2000s brought about incremental gains until 2007, followed by ups and downs in the next few years. Noteworthy is the significant boost in hydropower seen in 2018 and 2025, highlighting its role in Pakistan’s clean energy landscape. Nuclear energy took a pivotal role with marked increases in 2017, 2021, and 2022, propelling the country's move towards sustainable power. Solar power also contributed significantly, especially from 2023 to 2025. This historical pattern underscores the need for consistent policy support and investment in expanding low-carbon energy, particularly nuclear and solar, to sustain and enhance this positive momentum.
