Ali Hassan

Keeping in view the significance of shifting to cleaner sources of energy, Pakistan and Denmark have joined hands to develop renewable energy sources in Pakistan, said an official. Renewable energy is a vital solution to fight climate change and promote sustainability around the world. “Pakistan has a variety of untapped renewable energy resources. The country receives abundant sunshine, with an average of more than seven hours of daily sunlight throughout the year. It also has strong winds along the coast and in the mountains, which can be harnessed for wind energy,” said Dr Tahir Mehmood, Deputy Director Pakistan Council of Renewable Energy Technologies (PCRET), while talking to WealthPK. He said Denmark is assisting Pakistan in developing solar power projects due to Pakistan's significant solar energy potential. “This involves creating solar parks and installing solar panels in different areas.

These initiatives are helping Pakistan utilise solar energy and meet its electricity requirements in a sustainable manner,” Dr Tahir said. According to a report of Finance Division, it is estimated that Pakistan has the potential to generate 50,000MW electricity from wind and 43,000MW electricity from solar power. “Denmark has helped Pakistan set up wind power projects like the ‘Gharo-Jhimpir Wind Corridor,’ where Danish companies have invested in wind farms. These projects are adding to Pakistan's energy sources, decreasing harmful greenhouse gas emissions, and creating job opportunities,” he said. “By developing renewable energy in Pakistan, the country will become less reliant on imported fossil fuels. It will improve energy security and allow Pakistan to meet its increasing energy needs in a sustainable manner,” he added.

Dr Tahir said switching to renewable energy sources helps reduce the harmful effects on the environment caused by traditional energy production. “By decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, Pakistan can enhance air quality, combat climate change, and create a healthier environment for its people,” he said. According to a report published by IQAir, Lahore has jumped more than 10 places to become the city with the worst air in the world in 2022. Pakistan stood third among the countries with the most polluted air. “The growth of renewable energy projects promotes economic progress and generates job opportunities. Building, operating, and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure creates employment, which helps reduce poverty, and supports socioeconomic development,” he said. “Pakistan spends approximately $22 billion on the import of fossil fuel for energy sector. Collaboration with Denmark in renewable energy sector will help Pakistan drastically cut its import bill,” Dr Tahir said.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-
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