Battery storage imports in Pakistan are rising quickly and are projected to reach 8.75 GWh (+600 percent) by 2030 due to rising electricity prices and falling solar panel costs.
According to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), Pakistan imported an estimated 1.25 GWh of lithium-ion battery packs in 2024 and an additional 400 megawatt-hours (MWh) in the first two months of 2025. If current trends continue, battery storage could meet 26 percent of the projected peak electricity demand by 2030.
Most lithium-ion battery imports are sourced from China. However, battery costs in Pakistan remain elevated due to high customs duties and taxes, with prices ranging from $230/kWh to $360/kWh.
Despite a 48 percent cost increase from taxes, solar-plus-battery installations continue to rise.
Pakistan’s widespread rooftop solar deployment supports decentralised battery storage adoption. However, unregulated battery storage growth risks destabilizing the grid and increasing capacity payments. IEEFA has recommended immediate grid upgrades, smart metering, and regulatory adjustments to manage the transition and avoid costly generation spikes.
Pakistan should critically examine any restriction on solar power increased use to tackle system issues. A new approach should be adopted to remodel power systems.