Pakistan is undergoing a significant transformation in its energy landscape, with solar power emerging as a central component of its renewable energy strategy.
The integration of agrivoltaic systems, which combine solar panels with agricultural activities, exemplifies this shift.
These systems, by elevating solar panels above crop fields, facilitate dual land use, thereby enhancing land-use efficiency.
Research indicates that such systems can increase land productivity by up to 186%, allowing for simultaneous crop cultivation and solar energy generation.
This approach not only optimizes land use but also provides farmers with an additional income stream.
Community-based solar initiatives are gaining momentum, enabling multiple households, particularly in densely populated urban areas and remote villages, to share the benefits of a single solar installation.
In the United States, community solar projects represent more than 7,800 MWAC of total installed capacity across 44 states, demonstrating the model’s scalability and effectiveness.
Implementing similar models in Pakistan could significantly enhance equitable access to clean energy.
The development of user-friendly mobile applications is playing a pivotal role in accelerating solar adoption.
These platforms disseminate information on the benefits of solar energy, provide installation guidelines and detail available government incentives.
With the global solar energy market projected to grow from $94.6 billion in 2022 to $223.3 billion by 2026, Pakistan stands to benefit by embracing digital tools to facilitate solar integration.
Education and vocational training are critical components of a sustainable solar ecosystem.
Integrating solar energy topics into educational curricula and establishing vocational training centres focused on solar technology are essential for developing a skilled workforce.
Such initiatives ensure the sustainability and innovation of the solar industry by preparing technicians and professionals to meet the sector’s growing demands.
Investing in solar-powered public transportation, including buses and charging stations, can mitigate urban pollution and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The global solar bus market is expected to witness significant growth, with the market size projected to increase from USD 4.6 billion in 2024 to USD 22.2 billion by 2032, indicating a promising avenue for sustainable urban mobility in Pakistan.
Offering tax rebates or reduced utility rates to businesses that install solar panels can incentivize the commercial sector to transition to renewable energy.
In the United States, rooftop commercial solar capacity has experienced a 12% compound annual growth rate over the past five years, demonstrating the effectiveness of such incentives.
Implementing similar policies in Pakistan could encourage industrial entities to adopt solar solutions.
Distributing affordable solar-powered appliances, such as lanterns, fans and water heaters, to low-income families can improve living standards and reduce electricity expenses.
In the U.S., low- and moderate-income households represent 47% of rooftop solar technical potential, underscoring the importance of inclusive solar programs.
Engaging in partnerships with international organizations and investors can bring advanced solar technologies and funding to Pakistan.
Global collaboration in the solar supply chain has resulted in combined savings of $67 billion in solar module production costs, highlighting the benefits of cross-border cooperation.
As of 2024, Pakistan’s on-grid, net-metered solar capacity reached approximately 4.1 GW, a significant increase from just over 1.3 GW in June 2023.
This surge is attributed to rising grid electricity prices and falling solar panel costs.
Solar energy accounted for over 14% of Pakistan’s power supply in 2024, up from 4% in 2021, surpassing coal as the third-largest energy source.
In 2024, Pakistan imported over 17 GW of solar panels, more than doubling the previous year’s imports, reflecting a significant shift towards solar energy adoption.
The average cost of solar power generation in Pakistan has dropped to USD 0.04 per kWh, positioning solar as one of the most affordable energy sources.
The Pakistan Solar Energy Market is expected to grow from 2.07 GW in 2025 to 13.97 GW by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate of 46.55%.
pv magazine International SDPI However, recent policy changes have introduced uncertainty.
In March 2025, the government reduced the buyback rate for solar energy from Rs.27 per unit to Rs.10 per unit, a move that has raised concerns among investors and stakeholders.
Such policy fluctuations can deter foreign direct investment and hinder the growth of the solar sector.
Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s commitment to solar energy reflects a broader shift towards sustainable development and energy independence.
By capitalizing on its natural re-sources, implementing supportive policies and fostering international collaborations, Pakistan is poised to play a significant role in the global renewable energy landscape.
—The writer is Secretary General Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry. (tmalahore@gmail.com)
