Exploitation of Thar coal field for power generation in Pakistan: A way forward to sustainable energy future

Abstract

Thar desert is located in south-east Pakistan carries 175 billion tons of coal and is the biggest coalfield in Asia. In this paper mathematical framework is developed for the accurate estimation of power production from the available Thar coal capacity. Annual TWh possible energy production the period 2020 to 2040 followed by detailed analysis of capacity factor and Maximizing the share percentage of coal in total energy mix at least 40% by 2040 is presented. The findings reveal that Thar coal has the capability of producing 100,000 MW power up to the next 250 years. The energy generation for the years 2020, 2032, and 2040 is calculated 744 TWh per year, 700 TWh per year, and 665 TWh per year respectively and it produces negligible negative impacts on the environment. The long-term energy planning presented in this paper would attract foreign investment and Pakistan's energy needs would be fulfilled for sustainable development of the country.