Analyzing Pakistan's Energy Policy: Evaluating the Energy Mix and Climate Challenges

Abstract

This paper investigates the intricate relationship between Pakistan's economic growth and its energy supply, highlighting the government's active pursuit of long-term and sustainable energy provision strategies. Despite efforts such as LNG importation and hydrocarbon infrastructure development, the nation's heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources significantly contributes to global CO2 emissions, exacerbating climate challenges like glacier melt and rising temperatures. Addressing this, the research underscores the need for an integrated energy policy to ensure reliability, efficiency, and affordability. Drawing on quantitative data from HDIP and governmental policies, alongside international and local research papers, the study examines Pakistan's energy mix, sectoral utilization, organizational structures, and greenhouse gas emissions. Findings reveal a heavy reliance on hydrocarbons compared to regional counterparts, with untapped potential in renewable energy sources. Policy analysis highlights the importance of transitioning away from imported fuels while emphasizing reliable and affordable electricity provision. The study also sheds light on Pakistan's dominant energy consumption by the domestic sector, driven in part by imported fuels, posing economic challenges. Climate change implications, including CO2 emissions from imported coal usage, underscore the urgency of prioritizing indigenous and renewable resources. Recommendations include devising an integrated energy policy, promoting solar panel adoption, transitioning to indigenous coal, and exploring unconventional coal usage. Bridging the gap between policy statements and practical implementation is identified as crucial for sustainable energy and climate resilience in Pakistan.