Pakistan has experienced a remarkable increase in solar energy capacity within a short period, leading experts to describe it as one of the fastest solar revolutions globally. This rapid growth has empowered residents to cope with blackouts but poses challenges to the national power grid.

Unprecedented Solar Growth

Driven by affordable Chinese solar technology imports, Pakistan is projected to add an estimated 17 GW of solar power in 2024, accounting for more than a third of the country's total generating capacity. Energy analyst Dave Jones from the UK-based think tank Ember notes that this surge is "probably the most extreme" in terms of speed globally.

This expansion positions Pakistan among the top global installers of solar panels in 2024, alongside larger economies like China, the US, and Germany. Nationwide, consumers, businesses, and industries are rapidly adopting this renewable energy source as an alternative to the unreliable and costly state-provided, predominantly fossil-fuel-based energy.

Empowering Residents Amid Blackouts

Pakistan's unreliable power grid, characterized by under-supply and inadequate infrastructure, leaves millions in constant uncertainty. Over the past three years, households have faced soaring energy prices due to high oil and gas costs, over-investment in thermal power plants, and government subsidy cuts to meet International Monetary Fund loan conditions.

For many, solar energy has become a viable solution. Shafqat Hussain, a resident of Islamabad, installed rooftop solar panels after his mother suffered heatstroke during a 28-hour power outage amid a heatwave. Since the installation, his family's energy bill has decreased by about 80%, and they have not experienced a power outage, providing them with a newfound "sense of safety."

Challenges to the National Grid

While the solar boom advances Pakistan toward its goal of achieving 60% renewable energy by 2030, it has introduced complications. As more individuals utilize solar power for their daytime energy needs, the resulting decrease in demand is causing issues for operators of the national electricity grid.

Experts emphasize the need for grid infrastructure improvements and policy adjustments to accommodate the rapid increase in solar energy adoption. Without such measures, the stability of Pakistan's power supply could be at risk.

Source: DW News