Paksitan's Energy Crisis and Renewable Energy Resource

The globe is currently experiencing an energy shortage, which has shocked everyone from Europe to Asia. Pakistan is also no different. Due to a lack of energy production to meet the country's increasing demand over the past few decades,Pakistan's energy sector is in crisis. Oil and gas imports are now Pakistan's main sources of electricity. Pakistan is allegedly an energy-insecure nation, according to a white paper from the Asian Development Bank that was released in 2019. In addition to Pakistan, many other nations, even industrialised ones, experience energy insecurity. Since the energy sector is by its very nature in a loop, there are numerous instances of market development being followed by a downturn and severe contraction. But there are a number of ways in which the current crises vary.Because the Middle Eastern nations, which are a major source of imports, are being badly affected by the strain that Europe is going through as a result of the fuel and petrol shortage, the crisis is likely to get worse. The present dire situation demonstrates that there is currently an estimated 7,500 megawatts of power shortage, which leads to load-shedding for 10 to 18 hours. This indicates that the required supply is between 25,000 and 25,500 MW, while the present supply is roughly 18,000 MW. In addition, Pakistan's energy expenditure increased in the previous nine months, reaching USD 15 billion.

The Pakistani energy problem may be significantly alleviated by the use of renewable energy sources. Pakistan currently has a severe energy shortage as a result of a large gap between demand and supply. This has led to a lot of load shedding, frequent power outages, and an excessive dependence on pricey imported fossil fuels. By investigating alternative energy sources, such as renewable energy, the nation hopes to diversify its energy mix, lessen its dependence on fossil fuels, and improve its energy security.Pakistan has a lot of potential for renewable energy, especially in the areas of hydropower, wind, and solar. The location and climate of the nation make it a perfect location for solar and wind energy, and the country's mountainous landscape offers many possibilities for hydropower.

The Alternative Energy Development Board estimates that Pakistan has the capacity to generate 2.9 million MW of power solely from solar energy.The establishment of the Alternative Energy Development Board and the implementation of a feed-in tariff system to encourage private investment in renewable energy projects are just two of the actions the Pakistani government has already done to promote renewable energy. By 2030, the government wants to have 30% of the nation's energy come from renewable sources.

Renewable energy has many advantages in Pakistan. Renewable energy sources are first and foremost ecofriendly and do not create greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. Second, the use of green energy can lessen the nation's reliance on pricy imported fossil fuels, thereby enhancing energy security andreducing sensitivity to changes in the price of crude oil globally.Last but not least, renewable energy can bring electricity to rural and underserved regions of the nation where there is presently little access to it.

Here are some ways renewable energy can help Pakistan's energy crisis:

Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Renewable energy can help reduce Pakistan's dependence on fossil fuels, which are expensive and unsustainable. By increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, Pakistan can reduce its reliance on imported oil and gas, which will also help to reduce the country's trade deficit.

Lower Energy Costs: The cost of renewable energy has been declining globally, and it is becoming increasingly competitive with fossil fuels. The use of renewable energy can help reduce the cost of electricity in Pakistan and make it more affordable for consumers.

Increased Energy Security: Renewable energy can help improve Pakistan's energy security by diversifying the country's energy mix. Renewable energy resources are abundant in Pakistan, and by harnessing them, the country can become more self-sufficient in terms of energy.

Environmental Benefits: Fossil fuels are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. By using renewable energy, Pakistan can reduce its carbon footprint and help mitigate the effects of climate change.

Job Creation: The development of renewable energy resources can also create jobs in Pakistan. The installation and maintenance of renewable energy systems require skilled labor, which can provide employment opportunities for local communities.

In conclusion, the solution to Pakistan's energy problem may significantly involve the use of renewable energy. Due to the country's substantial potential for solar, wind, and hydropower as well as the government's dedication to renewable energy, it is a desirable location for investment in renewable energy projects. The development of renewable energy faces obstacles, but the advantages to the environment, energy security, and the provision of power to underserved areas make it a worthy investment for Pakistan's future.