Pakistan solar power generation: A sustainable leap forward
Pakistan’s solar power generation has increased significantly, now accounting for 25% of the national power supply. This surge is driven by a 26.9% rise in the average daily hours of sunshine, contributing to a record-breaking production of 2,624 GWh of solar energy.
Pakistan solar power and its contribution to the national grid
In a significant development for Pakistan’s energy sector, solar power generation has surged to account for 25% of the national power supply. The latest report from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) highlights a remarkable increase in solar energy production, reaching 2,624 gigawatt-hours (GWh).
This marks a 26.9% rise from the previous year, showcasing the growing role of solar energy in Pakistan’s electricity mix. The report attributes this surge to an increase in the average daily hours of sunshine, which jumped from 8 hours and 40 minutes in 2022 to 9 hours and 55 minutes in 2023.
This increase in sunlight has significantly boosted solar power generation, helping to meet the country’s electricity demands more sustainably. The total electricity generated in the country stood at 10,480 GWh, with solar contributing a quarter of this output.
Hydropower and other renewable sources alongside Pakistan solar power
While solar power has made impressive gains, hydropower remains a dominant force in Pakistan’s renewable energy landscape. According to NEPRA’s report, hydropower accounted for 29.8% of the total electricity generated, producing 3,118 GWh.
Other renewable sources, such as wind, bagasse, and biogas, contributed 12.7% to the energy mix, generating 1,332 GWh. The combined output from these renewable sources underscores the country’s commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio.
The rise in solar power generation is a positive development amid ongoing challenges in the power sector. Despite the increase in renewable energy production, Pakistan’s power shortfall remains a significant issue. The Ministry of Energy reported a shortfall of 2,000 megawatts (MW), leading to load-shedding in several regions. The total power demand stands at 23,000 MW, while the available capacity is 21,000 MW. This shortfall has been attributed to various factors, including the decline in hydropower generation due to reduced water levels and the impact of the global energy crisis on gas and coal prices.
Increasing Pakistan solar power capacity
Despite these challenges, the rise in solar power generation offers a glimmer of hope. The government has been actively promoting solar energy as a solution to the country’s power woes. Last year, the Prime Minister launched a solarization program aimed at reducing reliance on imported fuels and cutting electricity costs. Under this initiative, 1,000 MW of solar power plants will be installed at government buildings across the country.
In addition to government efforts, the private sector is also playing a crucial role in expanding solar power capacity. The rise in distributed solar power — where electricity is generated on-site rather than at a centralized location — has been particularly noteworthy. This model allows for more efficient and cost-effective power generation, reducing transmission losses and enhancing energy security.
The increase in solar power generation has also contributed to a reduction in electricity costs. The cost of solar energy in Pakistan has decreased to 7.7 cents per kilowatt-hour, making it one of the most affordable sources of electricity in the country. This reduction in costs is expected to ease the financial burden on consumers and help stabilize electricity prices in the long run.
Pakistan’s increased solar power generation is a testament to the potential of renewable energy in addressing the country’s energy challenges. With solar power now accounting for a quarter of the national power supply, the country is making strides toward a more sustainable and self-reliant energy future.
