Though energy conservation has consistently been a priority for successive governments in Pakistan, the country has faced significant challenges in effectively implementing such policies, said Amer Zia, adviser to the chief executive officer of Karachi-Electric (K-Electric). It is worth noting that from July to March FY23, the total electricity consumption in Pakistan amounted to 84,034 gigawatt-hours (GWh). Among the various sectors, the household sector emerged as the largest consumer, utilising 39,200 GWh, which accounts for 46.6% of the total consumption.

Zia asserted that the household sector has the potential to contribute to electricity conservation through civic responsibility. "Regrettably, the government's successive energy conservation initiatives have yet to include specific strategies aimed at curbing energy wastage by households." "While energy-efficient products are essential, their availability is a challenge. Therefore, cost-effectiveness is essential to ensure that the products are affordable for the general public," he underscored. Zia added that implementing energy conservation measures often requires significant investments. "Many individuals and businesses in Pakistan do not have the financial resources to make these investments, even if they would lead to long-term savings. The successive conservation policies have had no mention of the investment constraints."

According to the Pakistan Economic Survey FY23, the industrial sector consumed 23,687 GWh, representing 28.2% of the total consumption. Additionally, the agriculture and commercial sectors used up 6,906 GWh (8.2%) and 6,576 GWh (7.8%), respectively. The remaining 7,664 GWh (9.1%) of electricity was distributed among other sectors, including streetlights, general services, and various government services. The energy expert agreed that the indigenisation of fuels and embracing energy efficiency as a culture will help the country in addressing its energy crisis, especially in the industrial sector.

While highlighting the importance of energy conservation for the fulfilment of the carbon-emission targets that the country has set, he said: "By implementing energy-efficient practices and technologies, Pakistan can reduce its overall energy consumption. This includes improving the efficiency of industrial processes, transportation and residential buildings. Lower energy consumption means fewer carbon emissions, as much of Pakistan's energy is derived from fossil fuels." Many buildings and industrial facilities lack energy-efficient designs and equipment, making it challenging to reduce energy consumption. In Zia's view, the primary focus of conservation policies should be on the inefficient use of energy in industry, agriculture, transport, and buildings.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)