ISLAMABAD, May 09 (Wealth Pakistan): Pakistan aims to generate 95% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2040, according to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan.
The document sets a long-term roadmap to transform Pakistan into a majority-renewable energy economy by 2050. It also targets a 60% clean energy share by 2030 and 50% renewable electricity generation by 2035.
Under the plan, Pakistan will phase out or convert 14,000 megawatts of fossil fuel-based power plants by 2035. The strategy also seeks to cut transmission and distribution losses from 19% to 8%.
The roadmap targets 100% electricity access across the country. It also includes rooftop solar systems in all government secondary schools by 2035.
The document says Pakistan will invest in small businesses and entrepreneurs to create jobs and build skills in solar, wind, and hydrogen technologies.
Pakistan contributes only about 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions. Its per-capita emissions stand at 2.3 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. However, the country faces major economic pressure due to reliance on imported fossil fuels.
This dependence has strained foreign exchange reserves and widened the balance of payments gap. It has also contributed to circular debt exceeding Rs1.66 trillion in the power sector.
The document notes that volatile global fuel prices and currency fluctuations have increased electricity generation costs. These pressures have led to higher consumer tariffs and financial inefficiencies, including payments for underutilised capacity.
The shift to local renewable energy sources is critical for Pakistan. Solar, wind, hydro, and biomass can reduce import dependence, lower power costs, and improve energy security. These sources can also cut emissions and air pollution.
According to the document, Pakistan needs major investment in large-scale renewable projects, energy storage systems, and grid modernisation. These investments will help ensure system reliability as the country moves toward transport electrification.
Citing an April 2025 report, the document says Pakistan imported 17 gigawatts of solar power systems in 2024. This was double the previous year’s level. The report ranked Pakistan as the world’s third-largest importer of solar panels.
The surge in imports was driven by rising electricity tariffs and falling solar panel prices.