Potential of Untapped Renewable Energy Resources in Pakistan: Current Status and Future Prospects

Abstract

Energy is a very essential indicator for the sustainable development and economic growth of any country. Pakistan heavily relies on imported fossil fuels; their excessive use contributes to environmental pollution. According to the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority, Pakistan produces 63% of its electricity from fossil fuels. The world is now shifting towards renewable energy sources such as biomass, wind energy, solar energy, ocean energy, hydropower, and geothermal energy. At present, Pakistan fulfills 5.4% of its energy demand from renewable energy sources, including biomass, wind, and sun, and 25% from hydropower. Due to economic and political challenges, the country is facing a severe energy deficit (7000 MW). By 2030, Pakistan plans to fulfill 30% of its energy demand from renewable sources. The untapped potential of energy from renewable sources in Pakistan is nearly 60,000 MW from hydropower, 40,000 MW from sun, 346,000 MW from wind. To address the escalating energy demands and bridge the energy deficit, Pakistan must intensify its efforts in harnessing renewable energy resources.

Keywords

• sustainability
• power generation
• fossil fuel
• renewable energy resources
• electricity
• Pakistan