Addressing this crisis requires strategic investments in renewable energy infrastructure and comprehensive policy reforms to ensure sustainable energy supplies for the country’s future.
Pakistan’s energy crisis dates back to the 1970s when the country managed to avert a major energy crisis by constructing the Mangla and Tarbela dams. These projects were initiated during a brief period of strong hydroelectric power generation, which met the country’s needs at the time.
However, the 1980s saw a period of strong economic growth that caused demand for energy to rise. Despite government efforts to increase power generation, it failed to keep up with the growing demand. Pakistan’s energy crisis is primarily due to its heavy reliance on non-renewable and expensive fossil fuels, which make up 59% of its energy mix, according to Geo News.
This dependency is exacerbated by ageing transmission lines, infrastructure deficiencies, and issues such as lost lines, power theft, and inefficient energy use. Pakistan’s energy infrastructure is under increasing pressure due to overpopulation, rapid urbanization, and industrialization.
A World Bank report predicts that energy demand in Pakistan will rise by 70% by 2030, while supply is expected to grow by only 45%.
To address Pakistan’s energy crisis, a multi-faceted approach is needed. The country needs to diversify its energy mix by investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower, Geo News reported.
With only 7% of Pakistan’s energy coming from renewable sources, increasing this share is critical. Not only will this shift reduce reliance on expensive fossil fuels, it will also align with global trends towards sustainable energy.
Other ways to mitigate the problems of lost lines and power theft include expanding and upgrading transmission infrastructure. Addressing corruption and inefficiency within the power generation and distribution companies (Gencos and DISCOs) is also essential, Geo News reported.
The situation has reached such a point that the PML-N patron Nawaz Sharif He expressed his regret at the state of affairs.
“Electricity Bills “This has become a problem for everyone, not just the poor but for everyone,” he was quoted as saying by Pakistani media. The PML-N leader claimed that his government had “abolished power cuts and controlled electricity prices.”
“Decision makers will have to think now and care about our people,” he added.
Nawaz Sharif asked the administration led by Shehbaz Sharif to “do everything possible to provide relief to the masses”.
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