Who is involved
In recent years, Pakistan has been navigating a complex landscape marked by both energy transformation and security threats. Historically, the country has relied heavily on fossil fuels and imported energy, which has made it vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, particularly through critical routes like the Strait of Hormuz. However, the recent shift towards renewable energy, particularly solar power, is reshaping this narrative.
Before this development, Pakistan’s energy mix was predominantly fossil fuel-based, with solar energy accounting for only 2.9% of the total energy supply in 2020. The reliance on traditional energy sources not only strained the economy but also limited the country’s energy security. The expectation was that without significant policy changes, Pakistan would continue to face energy shortages and high import bills.
The decisive moment came with the introduction of a net-metering policy in 2015, which catalyzed a solar boom in the country. By 2025, solar energy’s share in Pakistan’s energy mix is projected to soar to 32.3%. This dramatic increase signifies a major shift in energy policy and public adoption, with a quarter of Pakistani households now utilizing solar panels. The price of solar panels has also plummeted to about 30 rupees ($0.10) per watt, making solar energy more accessible than ever.
However, while the energy landscape is changing, security concerns remain a pressing issue. Recently, Uttar Pradesh Police arrested four suspected handlers of an ISI-linked terror module in Lucknow, who were allegedly planning to carry out blasts at important locations, including railway stations. The head of this gang, Saquib, was reportedly in contact with his Pakistani handlers via social media, highlighting ongoing security challenges that Pakistan faces.
Pakistan Senator Mushahid Hussain has voiced concerns over the implications of growing ties between India and the UAE, suggesting that friendly relations with certain nations may not be beneficial for Pakistan. He stated, “Friendly ties with them do not land you up as part of Akhand Bharat.” This reflects the geopolitical tensions that continue to influence Pakistan’s security dynamics.
The financial implications of these developments are significant. Pakistan is preparing to repay around $3.5 billion to the UAE, originally extended in 2019. This repayment underscores the economic pressures the country faces, even as it seeks to bolster its energy independence through solar initiatives.
On the ground, the impact of the solar revolution is palpable. The number of households with net-metering has surpassed 280,000, allowing consumers to sell excess energy back to the grid. As one consumer, Karim Baksh, noted, “Now, I don’t care if the prices of diesel increase.” This sentiment reflects a growing confidence in renewable energy as a viable alternative.
Experts like Rabia Babar emphasize that Pakistan’s solar revolution was not orchestrated by the government but rather emerged organically from grassroots initiatives. She remarked, “Pakistan’s solar revolution wasn’t planned in Islamabad – it was built on rooftops.” This grassroots movement is indicative of a broader trend where developing countries are leveraging affordable technology to enhance energy access.
