Pakistan Emerges as Global Solar Powerhouse with Record-Breaking Imports
In a remarkable turn of events, Pakistan has ascended to the forefront of the global solar energy market, importing an unprecedented 17 gigawatts of solar panels in 2024. This surge, as reported by the Global Electricity Review 2025 from UK-based energy think tank Ember, signifies a doubling of the previous year’s imports and positions Pakistan among the world’s top solar adopters.
Unlike many nations where solar expansion is driven by government initiatives or large-scale utility projects, Pakistan’s solar revolution is predominantly grassroots. Households, small businesses, and commercial entities are leading the charge, installing rooftop solar systems to combat frequent power outages and escalating electricity costs. Muhammad Mustafa Amjad, Programme Director at Renewables First, describes this movement as a “survival response” to the country’s unreliable grid and inefficient energy planning.
The affordability and reliability of solar energy have made it an attractive alternative, especially as electricity rates for businesses in Pakistan have soared to 16.6 cents per kilowatt-hour—37% higher than neighboring India and more than double the Asian average. This economic pressure has prompted a significant shift, with many turning to Chinese-imported solar panels that can recoup their costs in as little as two years.
However, this rapid adoption of solar energy presents challenges for Pakistan’s traditional power grid. As more affluent consumers transition to solar, the burden of maintaining the grid falls disproportionately on lower-income households, potentially exacerbating energy inequities. The government faces the complex task of balancing the promotion of renewable energy with the financial sustainability of the national grid.
Pakistan’s unexpected rise as a solar energy leader underscores the transformative potential of decentralized renewable energy solutions, particularly in regions grappling with energy poverty and economic constraints. As the nation continues to navigate its energy future, the lessons from its solar journey may offer valuable insights for other countries seeking sustainable and equitable energy transitions.
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