Pakistan Sets Record with 17GW Solar Imports

Islamabad, April 2025 — In a historic move that underscores Pakistan’s commitment to clean energy, the country has set a new record by importing 17 gigawatts (GW) worth of solar energy systems in just one fiscal year. This bold step is being hailed as a significant leap toward energy independence and environmental sustainability.

• Pakistan imported 17GW of solar systems during the 2024-2025 fiscal year.

• The largest-ever import of solar equipment in the country’s history.

• Boosts Pakistan’s renewable energy capacity to new heights.
  This aligns with the national goal of achieving 60% clean energy by 2030.

• Driven by rising electricity costs and increasing climate awareness.

• Massive growth in residential, commercial, and agricultural solar usage.

• Experts predict record-breaking drops in national power demand from fossil fuels.

• Expected to save billions in energy costs and reduce load-shedding.

Pakistan has long faced challenges in energy supply, particularly with rising demand, aging infrastructure, and reliance on imported fossil fuels. By importing 17GW of solar power systems, the country is shifting gears to a greener and more self-reliant future.

• One gigawatt (GW) can power roughly 700,000 homes.

• 17GW has the potential to electrify 11.9 million households.

• This move could reduce annual carbon emissions by over 15 million tons.

• This could offset the need for importing expensive oil and LNG.

Rising Electricity Costs

• Soaring power bills are pushing both urban and rural households toward solar.

• Solar is now seen as a long-term investment, not just a trend.

Government Incentives

• Duty exemptions on solar panel imports.

• Encouraging net metering for residential and commercial buildings.

• Provinces like Punjab and Sindh offer subsidies for solarization.

Climate Commitments

• Pakistan aims to derive 60% of its energy from renewables by 2030.

• The 17GW milestone is a step toward that ambitious goal.

• Homeowners across Pakistan are installing rooftop panels.

• Load-shedding relief and long-term savings drive demand.

• Factories and shopping malls are switching to off-grid solar solutions.

• Major companies are setting up solar farms for internal use.

Tube wells and irrigation systems are now powered by solar in remote areas.

• Reduces diesel dependency and improves crop cycles.

Despite this breakthrough, several challenges remain:

• Grid Infrastructure: Need for modernization to handle distributed generation.
  
  

• Battery Storage: Lack of affordable storage solutions for nighttime usage.
  
  

• Policy Continuity: Political shifts could affect long-term strategies.
  
  

• Technical Skills Gap: Need for widespread training and certification.
  
  

“This is a landmark moment for Pakistan. 17GW in one year isn’t just a number—it’s a shift in mindset. The private sector is now fully engaged in solving Pakistan’s energy problems.”

“Pakistan has made a green statement to the world. If implemented wisely, this could be the turning point for energy equity in the region.”

The Ministry of Energy has praised the private sector for leading this solar revolution. In a press statement, officials promised:

• Continued support for solar imports and local production.

• Reforms in net-metering policies to encourage more adoption.

• Exploration of solar-wind hybrid projects.

Pakistan’s achievement of importing 17GW of solar equipment in a single year is more than a statistic—it’s a testament to the country's resilience and forward-thinking approach in tackling climate change and energy poverty. With the right support and continued momentum, this could be the beginning of a solar-powered era for the nation.