KARACHI: K-Electric, Karachi’s main power utility, plans to nearly double Pakistan’s solar energy capacity by adding 640 megawatts of clean energy within the next two years. This initiative is part of the company’s efforts to expand its renewable energy portfolio, according to Shahab Qader Khan, K-Electric’s Chief Strategy Officer.
The bidding process for the initial solar projects begins on August 19 and will conclude next month. Developers will compete for various solar projects that will supply electricity to K-Electric. Among these projects is a 200-megawatt hybrid solar-wind generation facility.
Pakistan has long struggled with high electricity costs, mainly due to its reliance on expensive fossil fuel imports. Since 2021, electricity bills have increased by 155%, with some families paying up to $700 a month, often exceeding their rent expenses. By doubling the solar energy share, which currently makes up just 1% of the country’s energy mix, K-Electric aims to help reduce Pakistan’s overall import bill.
Over the next five years, K-Electric plans to add approximately 1,200 megawatts of renewable energy projects. The company also intends to gradually phase out expensive energy sources like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel oil.