Using Solar Power at the State Level: A Sustainable Solution to Pakistan’s Energy Shortage

Pakistan is among the developing countries which have been suffering from an energy crisis for so many years now. This crisis has stifled economic growth, disrupted daily life, and hindered progress in various sectors. However, amidst these challenges lies an abundant and untapped resource: solar power. Using solar energy at the state level can hold the answer to the energy shortage issue. Since Pakistan is one of those countries with a shiny sun for 12 months of the year, Pakistan can get a solution for its energy issues in the long term.

So, to give you a few ideas on how Pakistan can benefit from solar solutions, we will discuss a few ways solar can prove to be a big help.

4 Ways How Solar Energy Can Help Pakistan become Sustainable:

1.      Clean and Renewable Energy:

Transitioning to solar power on a state level can significantly contribute to Pakistan’s goal of reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Solar energy is renewable and clean, which doesn’t affect any energy source or negatively on the environment.

By using solar energy and putting up solar lights on a state level (from street lights to small solar firefly lights), Pakistan can contribute to eliminating air pollution, which will immensely help with climate change. For Pakistan, sunlight is abundant, which means that harnessing solar energy is just an opportunity waiting to be grabbed.

1.      Diversifying the Energy Mix:

Pakistan’s overreliance on traditional energy sources, such as oil and gas, has led to an erratic power supply and frequent energy crises. By incorporating solar energy into the mix of coal energy and solar energy, the country can get its energy from a more reliable source. This way, solar energy can also help with power shortages.

When grid energy is turned off, solar can come to the rescue, and this way, all the industries, businesses and hospitals keep working like normal. This diversification would create a robust energy ecosystem, less vulnerable to the fluctuations of a single energy source.

1.      Job Creation and Economic Growth:

Developing and deploying solar power infrastructure at the state level would generate many job opportunities, leading to socio-economic growth and poverty reduction. Solar systems don’t require much maintenance; however, when they do, they are maintained and researched by experts, as not everyone can handle solar panels and their electrical requirements.

The field will require skilled professionals like technicians, engineers and other individuals of similar fields to work with solar systems. The individuals from the technical field that are suffering right now due to livelihood shortage will get a chance to use their skills and earn a living. Additionally, local manufacturing and assembly of solar panels and equipment would promote domestic industries, stimulating economic growth and reducing dependence on costly imports.

This general approach to energy generation would not only bridge the energy gap but also drive overall development, enhance livelihoods, and uplift local communities.

1.      Energy Access for Remote Areas:

One of the most significant advantages of utilizing solar power at the state level is the ability to provide electricity to remote and off-grid areas. Many regions in Pakistan, especially rural communities, are still deprived of electricity, hindering their socio-economic progress. With its decentralized nature, solar power offers an ideal solution for these underserved areas.

By setting up micro grids powered by solar energy, these communities can gain access to reliable electricity, transforming their lives by enabling better healthcare, education, communication, and economic opportunities. State-level solar initiatives can empower these marginalized communities, bridging the rural-urban divide and fostering inclusive growth nationwide.

What do we think?

Pakistan’s energy shortage has hindered its progress for far too long. Embracing solar power at the state level can be the catalyst for change, addressing the energy crisis while promoting sustainable development. By harnessing abundant sunlight resources, Pakistan can transition to clean and renewable energy, stabilizing the economy. In collaboration with private sector entities and international partners, the government must prioritize and invest in solar infrastructure development, incentivize renewable energy projects, and formulate supportive policies. This will help make Pakistan greener and more prosperous for future generations.