Pakistan has emerged as the sixth-largest solar market globally, reflecting its growing commitment to renewable energy, particularly solar power. A recent report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) highlights the country’s potential to become a leader in solar adoption as the world shifts toward sustainable energy solutions.
Pakistan’s rapid embrace of solar energy stems from its geographic advantages, with most regions receiving over nine hours of sunlight daily. According to the World Bank, allocating just 0.071% of the country’s land for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could meet Pakistan’s entire electricity demand, showcasing immense untapped potential.
However, renewable energy sources currently account for only 5.4% of Pakistan’s energy mix, including solar, wind, and biomass. The majority of the country’s electricity still relies on fossil fuels (63%) and hydropower (25%), as reported by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).
Pakistan’s solar market expansion has been aided by favorable external conditions, particularly the overproduction of solar panels in China. This surplus has driven down solar equipment costs, positioning Pakistan as the third-largest importer of Chinese solar products.
These affordable imports have bolstered the country’s solar infrastructure and supported its growing reliance on renewable energy. Longstanding inefficiencies in Pakistan’s energy sector have also accelerated the transition to solar. Unreliable state-run energy providers, frequent power outages, and regulatory barriers have intensified the nation’s energy crisis.
These challenges have prompted individuals, businesses, and policymakers to turn to solar power as a practical and cost-effective solution. Pakistan’s rapid solar adoption demonstrates its potential to become a leader in renewable energy, offering hope for a more sustainable and energy-secure future.