Who is involved
Historically, Pakistan has faced significant challenges in its energy sector, heavily reliant on fossil fuels and vulnerable to fluctuations in global supply routes. The country’s energy systems are intricately tied to the Strait of Hormuz, making it susceptible to geopolitical tensions. However, recent years have seen a shift towards renewable energy, particularly solar power, which has begun to reshape the landscape of energy consumption in Pakistan.
As of 2025, a remarkable 25% of Pakistani households are utilizing solar panels, a significant increase from just 2.9% in 2020. This transition has been facilitated by a rapid decline in the price of solar panels, now at about 30 rupees (approximately $0.10) per watt. The introduction of a net-metering policy in 2015 has further accelerated this growth, with over 280,000 households now participating in net-metering schemes. This solar boom has not only empowered consumers but has also helped Pakistan save more than $12 billion in fuel imports since 2018.
However, alongside these positive developments, Pakistan is grappling with significant security concerns. Recently, the Uttar Pradesh Police arrested four suspected handlers of an ISI-linked terror module in Lucknow, who were allegedly planning to trigger blasts at important places, including railway stations. The head of this gang, identified as Saquib, was reportedly in contact with his Pakistani handlers through social media, highlighting the ongoing security threats that Pakistan faces.
Pakistan Senator Mushahid Hussain has raised alarms over the growing relationship between India and the UAE, suggesting that friendly ties with the UAE could inadvertently position Pakistan in a precarious geopolitical situation. He stated, “Friendly ties with them do not land you up as part of Akhand Bharat,” reflecting concerns about regional dynamics and their implications for Pakistan.
In the economic realm, Pakistan is preparing to repay around $3.5 billion to the UAE, which was originally extended in 2019. This financial obligation underscores the complexities of Pakistan’s economic relationships and the pressures it faces in managing its international debts while simultaneously investing in domestic energy solutions.
Experts like Rabia Babar emphasize that Pakistan’s solar revolution was not centrally planned but rather emerged organically from the grassroots level. She noted, “Pakistan’s solar revolution wasn’t planned in Islamabad – it was built on rooftops,” illustrating how local initiatives have driven significant changes in energy consumption patterns.
Furthermore, the affordability of solar energy has transformed public sentiment. As one consumer, Karim Baksh, remarked, “Now, I don’t care if the prices of diesel increase,” indicating a shift in reliance from traditional energy sources to renewable options. This sentiment reflects a broader trend among consumers who are increasingly turning to solar energy as a viable alternative.
While Pakistan makes strides in renewable energy, the simultaneous rise in security threats poses a significant challenge to the nation’s stability. The juxtaposition of a burgeoning solar market against the backdrop of terrorism-related incidents paints a complex picture of Pakistan’s current situation. As the country navigates these dual narratives, the implications for its future remain to be seen.
