Key Points
- Prime Minister orders acceleration of battery storage systems
- Exports to Gulf states continue despite regional tensions
- Shipping capacity expansion ordered to strengthen maritime trade
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan planned to reshape its energy and trade outlook through an accelerated transition to renewable electricity and better export logistics in a bid to cushion external shocks from regional instability and global fuel market disruptions.
Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said solar and other renewable sources would form the backbone of Pakistan’s future energy system, according to officials of the PM Office.
He directed authorities to fast-track battery energy storage projects, they added.
They quoted the Prime Minister as stressing that strengthening storage capacity is essential to ensure stability of the power system as the share of renewable generation increases over time.
Pakistan’s renewable energy currently accounts for about 55 per cent of electricity generation, compared to 45 per cent from fossil fuels, as per the officials’ briefing to the meeting under the PM.
They said ongoing planning aims to increase the renewable share to 90 per cent within the next decade, significantly reducing dependence on imported fuels.
The prime minister noted that despite regional tensions affecting fuel supply chains, Pakistan has avoided a major energy crisis due to the rising contribution of renewable energy sources.
The meeting was also informed that exports to Gulf countries have continued without disruption despite the regional security situation, supported by diplomatic engagement and trade facilitation efforts.
The prime minister said effective diplomacy had ensured continuity of exports to Gulf markets, where demand for Pakistani agricultural products continues to grow.
He directed the National Shipping Corporation to arrange additional vessels to expand maritime export capacity and improve trade logistics.
Pakistan is also pursuing enhanced coordination with Gulf partners to safeguard trade flows and explore new export opportunities, particularly in agriculture-related commodities.
