As of 2024, Pakistan's electricity consumption remains a noteworthy example of a balanced mix between fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels account for slightly more than half of the electricity production, with gas being the largest contributor at about 25% and coal following at 14%. Notably, low-carbon electricity generation is a close competitor, representing almost 47% of total electricity generation. This impressive share is largely due to hydropower, which contributes nearly 19%, and nuclear power, accounting for more than 13%. Solar energy has also made significant inroads, contributing over 10% to the electricity mix, while wind energy adds another 3%. Although biofuels contribute a smaller share of around 1%, the collective low-carbon efforts place Pakistan on a promising path towards a more sustainable electricity landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in Pakistan?
In recent years, Pakistan has faced a stagnation in its overall electricity consumption, which might raise some concerns when considering future energy demands. As of 2024, electricity consumption has slightly dipped to 727 kWh per person, a minimal decrease from the previous year's record of 728 kWh. This stagnation suggests a potential halt in economic or infrastructural growth, which could be detrimental in a world advancing with AI and electrification trends. However, on a brighter note, the country has witnessed a significant increase in low-carbon electricity generation, reaching 338 kWh per person, a 29 kWh increase compared to 2023. This growth in clean energy is especially encouraging and highlights the potential for Pakistan to spearhead its energy transition.
Suggestions
Looking forward, Pakistan should consider expanding its nuclear and solar energy capacity, given their current significant contribution to the electricity mix and their potential for further development. Countries like France and Slovakia have achieved impressive nuclear energy shares of 68% and 62% respective to their total electricity generation, setting an inspiring example for Pakistan. On the solar front, countries like Lebanon and regions such as Nevada have illustrated how solar energy can be a cornerstone of clean electricity generation with their sizable shares of 31% and 27% respectively. Drawing lessons from these successful regions, Pakistan could amplify its low-carbon energy share, particularly by increasing its nuclear and solar capacities, to secure a sustainable energy future.
History
Historically, Pakistan has seen various phases of growth in low-carbon energy, notably in the hydropower sector, which experienced significant expansions in the late 80s and early 2000s, with noteworthy annual increases. However, the sector also faced some setbacks with notable declines, such as in 1996 and 2011, which Pakistan needs to learn from for future stability. In contrast, the nuclear sector has shown encouraging growth, especially since 2021, where substantial increases were documented each year. This recent momentum signifies the critical role of nuclear energy in the push for a low-carbon electricity framework. Solar energy, too, has shown considerable growth from 2023 to 2024, marking it as a sector ripe for further investment. Overall, Pakistan's history of low-carbon electricity generation demonstrates both the potential and the need for continued advancements to ensure a green and reliable energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.