In 2024, Pakistan’s electricity consumption showcases a near equilibrium between fossil fuel and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels account for about 53% of the electricity supply, with natural gas alone contributing almost a quarter of the total. Coal also provides a notable share of about 14%. On the low-carbon side, Pakistan achieves more than 46% of its electricity from clean energy sources. Hydropower leads the way, contributing nearly 19%, while nuclear energy provides a substantial 13%. Solar energy, with over 10%, underlines its growing role, whereas wind energy contributes about 3% and biofuels make up just over 1%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Pakistan?
Electricity consumption in Pakistan demonstrates a negligible change compared to the previous year, with current figures at 727 kWh per person, identical to the 2023 record of 728 kWh/person. This stagnation in overall electricity consumption is concerning as it indicates a stall in growth. However, there is a silver lining in the low-carbon sector, which has seen a positive leap; it grew to 338 kWh/person from 309 kWh/person in 2023, marking a commendable increase of 29 kWh/person. This upward trend in clean energy generation is encouraging, but the static overall consumption could indicate untapped potential for increased electricity usage and production.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Pakistan should focus on expanding its already significant nuclear and solar sectors. Nuclear energy, with its high capacity and reliability, can be exemplified by countries like France, where nuclear generation accounts for 70% of electricity. Following a similar path, South Korean nuclear power contributes to 32% of the country's power, showcasing stable growth. Meanwhile, solar power also holds great promise, as evidenced by states like Nevada, where solar energy constitutes 33% of electricity generation. By harnessing these examples, Pakistan can further amplify its clean electricity supply, thereby reducing air pollution and combating the adverse effects of climate change.
History
Historically, Pakistan's low-carbon electricity generation has seen a series of ebbs and flows. In the early 1990s, hydropower experienced intermittent growth, with significant surges in 1992 and 1994 before facing setbacks in subsequent years like 1996 and 1999. Notable growth patterns reemerged in the 2000s, particularly in 2002, 2003, and 2005, followed by declines such as in 2007 and 2011. From 2016 onward, nuclear energy saw a marked uptick, with substantial increases in 2021 and 2022. Recently, solar energy surged with a notable boost in 2023 and an even more significant rise in 2024. These fluctuations in low-carbon electricity underline Pakistan's dynamic energy landscape, with recent years showing promising strides towards greener energy solutions.
