Experts Advocate A Renewal Of Pakistan’s Energy Vision By Bridging The Gap Between Old And The New
Conference Overview
Islamabad: Renewables First (RF), a Pakistan-based think tank for energy and the environment, hosted an insightful conference titled “Renewing Pakistan’s Energy Vision.” Held at the Marriott Islamabad on October 3rd, the event injected fresh momentum into the ongoing dialogue surrounding a more sustainable and inclusive energy landscape in Pakistan. The discussion called for an evidence-based, long-term approach to shaping the nation’s energy future.
Challenging Conventional Narratives
The conference commenced by addressing misconceptions about renewable energy , including perceived needs for baseload power, coal costs, gas as a transition fuel, and land requirements for wind farms. Basit Ghauri from Renewables First emphasized adopting a data-driven approach to expedite Pakistan’s energy transition.
Transmission and Grid Challenges
Experts highlighted issues causing wind curtailment and capacity surplus. Wind expert Fozan Waheed noted, “Curtailing wind undermines renewable energy objectives. Numerous studies detail potential grid enhancements to prevent future curtailment.” Aqeel Jafri, Director (Policy) at Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB), emphasized, “No transition is possible without proper transmission.”
Electricity Price and Policy Issues
The conference examined recent spikes in electricity prices. Dr Khalid Waleed from the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) remarked, “Short-term agreements to address power crises have led to today’s soaring prices. Shifting toward long-term planning and policy implementation is imperative.” Rabia Babar from Herald Analytics added, “Existing data formats impede efficient analysis, hindering well-informed decision-making.”
Health and Environmental Considerations
Zain Moulvi from Alternative Law Collective highlighted that although Pakistan may not be a significant global emitter, the health implications of the coal industry necessitate a swift transition to cleaner energy sources.
Innovative Energy Technologies
Mustafa Amjad of Renewables First unveiled a study on green ammonia in Pakistan’s fertilizer sector, emphasizing its potential in the emerging Green Hydrogen Economy. Dr Zainab Naeem from SDPI discussed Carbon Capture technology opportunities in Pakistan’s cement and concrete industries.
Ammar Qaseem, an energy modeling expert from RF, presented on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) combined with solar, wind, and hybrid technologies. He outlined key use cases: providing firm capacity, supporting grid load, and assisting during peak hours. “BESS systems of 20 to 40 MW offer the most cost-effective and technically sound solutions,” he said.
Off-Grid Renewable Solutions
The event concluded with the presentation of an Off-Grid Renewables Project Development Guidebook to Shah Jahan Mirza, CEO of PPIB. The guidebook outlines development procedures for Solar Micro Grids and Micro Hydel Power Plants in Pakistan, supporting investors and stakeholders in the sector.
Conclusion
The conference highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s renewable energy future, emphasising innovative solutions and mainstreaming technologies for a sustainable power sector.
Original article: The Pakistan Daily