Pakistan stands at a pivotal crossroads in its energy journey, particularly in the realm of renewable resources. Despite making strides in wind power development, the country finds itself grappling with significant transmission bottlenecks that are curtailing its potential. Afia Malik, an energy expert at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), has shed light on this pressing issue, emphasizing that the lack of robust infrastructure is a major barrier to fully harnessing the capabilities of key wind farms like Jahmpir and Gharo.
The problem isn’t just a technical glitch; it’s a systemic oversight rooted in outdated centralized planning practices at the ministry level. This has led to inadequate interconnection arrangements, leaving many renewable energy plants underutilized. Malik argues that a shift towards a comprehensive strategy is essential. “This oversight underscores the critical need for a comprehensive strategy that anticipates and accommodates the growing capacity of renewable energy sources in the country,” she states.
Recently, the submission of the first-ever Transmission System Expansion Plan (TSEP) to the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) was seen as a beacon of hope. However, Malik warns that the plan’s success largely depends on the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC) stepping up its game. Currently, NTDC’s heavy reliance on donor agencies for infrastructure upgrades reveals a significant gap in local ownership and strategic planning. “This dependence can stifle innovation and limit the ability to respond swiftly to the needs of the energy sector,” she highlights.
The stakes are high. The share of wind energy in Pakistan’s national grid dropped by 11% in the fiscal year 2022-23 compared to the previous year, a worrying trend given the government’s professed commitment to renewable energy. Malik asserts that improving existing infrastructure and planning for future expansions is crucial to meet the rising demand for clean energy. “Such a shift in strategy will position NTDC as a leader in the transition towards a more sustainable energy future,” she asserts.
Zulfiqar Ali, CEO of Safeway Renewable Energy, echoes these sentiments, pointing out that even though wind energy is recognized as a mandatory source, the inefficiencies in delivering this energy to consumers lead to significant losses. He highlights that wind power, alongside solar energy, has become one of the most affordable electricity sources in Pakistan, with levelized tariffs dropping nearly 70% in recent years. Yet, this economic viability is undermined by persistent curtailment issues, largely due to inadequate transmission infrastructure.
The reality is stark: many wind farms, particularly in southern regions, face struggles in getting their power onto the national grid. This leads to curtailment, where available wind power is reduced or halted, despite its availability. “The sad reality is that even as the country seeks to diversify its energy mix and enhance sustainability, these bottlenecks hinder progress,” Ali laments.
To break free from this cycle, both Malik and Ali advocate for a collaborative approach that includes national and provincial entities. By devising an integrated plan, Pakistan can unlock the full potential of its wind energy resources, paving the way for enhanced energy security and sustainable development. This is not just about improving infrastructure; it’s about reshaping the future of energy in Pakistan, making it cleaner, more efficient, and more aligned with the country’s long-term goals.
