PAKISTAN’S ENERGY CRISIS: IN FACE OF GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLEDGES & NATIONAL COMMITMENTS

Abstract

In wake of recent international and national commitments, Pakistan is bound to shift its development on the sustainable trajectory. One of the common goals of the UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol- Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development Goals (2030), Pakistan Vision-2025, Pak Energy Vision-2035, and National Power Policy (2013) is the achievement of a long-term, modern, efficient, reliable, affordable energy supply. This cannot be realized without considering the energy sector which is backbone of economy and unfortunately the major contributor to Pakistan‘s GHG emissions. Hence, this study reviewed the energy sector of Pakistan with the aim to explore its potential to achieve sustainable development. For this purpose, an extensive policy review was carried out to determine the underlying problems of the prevailing energy crisis. It was found that the global pledges have not only triggered socio-environmental consciousness but also vowed for reduction of carbon foot print through cleaner technologies, expansion of carbon markets and less fossil dependency. Although financial and technical support is provided through Global Environment Facility, Clean Development Mechanism, Green Climate Fund etc, however, these opportunities could not be fully utilized due to capacity issues. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor is also envisioned to bring energy-prosperity in the region. To realize its benefits, there is need to devise a rational integrated energy plan which must address all aspects of sustainability. Such energy system is indispensible in view of existing energy crisis and recent global initiatives that impose bigger challenge to Pakistan.