As the prices of electricity and solar energy in Pakistan have increased, the demand for alternative energy has increased with it. The need of the hour calls for the one sustainable energy source that has been making waves worldwide. For the past three years, Pakistan has seen a 115% increase in electricity tariffs.
Many citizens and industries are witnessing that the ever-increasing prices are quickly becoming unfeasible. Now, people are increasingly considering solar energy in particular as a way forward. Hence, to meet this rising demand for solar energy, Pakistan has imported around 15 GW of solar panels from China this fiscal year, roughly spending about USD 2.1 billion solely on solar energy.
With the world moving closer to gaining maximum renewable energy in Pakistan is also putting its best foot forward by doing its part in the usage of sustainable energy. The country has now become one of the largest markets for Chinese solar panels. Pakistan is also now the 7th largest importer of Chinese solar technology, showcasing the speed of its solar expansion.
More consumers are now moving toward solar power, and the demand for power from the electricity grid has decreased. More specifically, it has faced a reduction of about 10.4% in recent years. This highlights that within a few more years, Pakistan will likely have to look at other energy sources beyond the national grid, and energy requirements will have to be reevaluated, especially since most of the electricity goes to consumers’ private properties where the cost of grid power has soared.
The growing demand for renewable energy calls for change, meaning there is an urgent need for the current electricity grid to be modernized. Pakistan’s grid in particular will need substantial updates. This way the flow of power will be distributed equally and the supply and demand will be balanced, especially for sources like residential solar panel systems. Solar power is also a lot cheaper than traditional electricity, including solar batteries, and thus the cost-effectiveness of the matter will also inevitably lead more consumers towards solar.
Pakistan’s solar expansion is largely consumer-led, meaning individuals and businesses are the leading force when it comes to shifting to solar energy. This unique approach has also caught the attention of global experts. Renewable energy analysts see Pakistan’s model as an inspiring example for other developing countries like Brazil, South Africa, and Nigeria, who all face similar energy challenges. This grassroots approach prioritizes individual choice and affordability.
Since the desire for solar is on the rise while prices continue to fall, Pakistan’s solar market is expected to grow with off-grid energy solutions most in demand. Households and businesses will then be able to store all their electricity independently on the grid. This move would decrease dependency on the grid and will make way for a more resilient and self-sufficient energy landscape in Pakistan, making this a remarkable era for renewable energy in Pakistan and across the country.
