Solar Energy Development in Pakistan: Barriers and Policy Recommendations

Muhammad Irfan (), Zhen-Yu Zhao, Munir Ahmad and Marie Claire Mukeshimana
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Zhen-Yu Zhao: Beijing Key Laboratory of New Energy and Low Carbon Development, School of Economics and Management, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
Munir Ahmad: Beijing Key Laboratory of New Energy and Low Carbon Development, School of Economics and Management, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China
Marie Claire Mukeshimana: Beijing Key Laboratory of New Energy and Low Carbon Development, School of Economics and Management, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China

Sustainability, 2019, vol. 11, issue 4, 1-18

Abstract: Energy generation is heavily dependent on fossil fuels in Pakistan. Due to the huge population and current progress in industrialization, these sources are not fulfilling the existing energy needs of the country. Meanwhile, they have adverse environmental impacts and are economically unsuitable to electrify remote areas. Consequently, there is a need to look for alternate energy sources. The aim of this paper is to find out the best renewable energy option for Pakistan. For this purpose, we have collected data for solar radiation and wind speed for a period of one year in four major cities of Pakistan. Results indicate that solar energy is the best renewable energy option for Pakistan in terms of price, life span, operation and maintenance cost. Key barriers have been identified over the whole solar energy spectrum through semi-structured interviews with industry professionals. And finally, important policy recommendations have been proposed for institutions and government to overcome these barriers and utilize maximum solar energy in the country.

Keywords: solar energy; resource potential; metrological data; barriers; policy recommendations; Pakistan (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (43)

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