ISLAMABAD, Amid a global transition towards clean energy in light of climate change, the Interim Minister for Energy reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change at the national level. In a meeting with the ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, H.E Jacob Linulf, at the Power Division, updates on the Danish Energy Transmission Initiative (DETI) project were discussed. The minister highlighted the recently approved National Electricity Plan 2023 and its ambitious targets for renewable energy inclusion in the country’s power mix.
According to Press Information Department, the National Electricity Plan 2023 outlines guidelines, mechanisms, and tools to realize the goals of the National Electricity Policy for the power sector. It sets forth ambitious targets: aiming for a renewable energy share of 40% by 2025 and 60% by 2030. The minister expressed optimism in Denmark’s support, citing the nation’s expertise and experience in clean energy. Collaboration with Denmark, which has already made significant strides in its energy transition, is anticipated to benefit Pakistan’s journey towards a greener energy mix and meeting its Climate Change targets and Sustainable Development Goals.
The ambassador conveyed his intention to elevate the collaboration between Denmark and Pakistan. Discussions revolved around plans to expand sustainable energy, with particular emphasis on wind and solar. The minister underscored the significant role of the power sector in climate change mitigation and highlighted the government’s prioritization of a just energy transition in Pakistan. The ultimate aim is to reduce tariffs gradually and pivot towards the utilization of indigenous resources.
Updates on the DETI project, which encompasses two thematic areas – energy planning and modeling and the integration of renewable energy, were further discussed. The upcoming Conference of Parties (COP-28) will address two scenarios pertaining to DETI: a green scenario focusing on wind and solar energy progress and another examining the economic aspects, while also taking into account grid constraints. The minister emphasized that the COP-28 agenda would be framed to maximize green investment in Pakistan.
For future collaboration, the duo agreed on analyzing the existing transmission and distribution network, pinpointing bottlenecks, and recommending ways to boost renewable energy capacity, particularly regarding the Interconnection Ready Zones (IRZs) identified in a World Bank study. DETI’s role will encompass providing advice on mitigating seasonal demand variations to maintain energy supply and system stability, especially given new Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) additions as per the Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) 2022-31.
Concluding the meeting, the minister expressed hopes for a sustained and expansive partnership with Denmark to reach Pakistan’s green energy objectives. The Danish ambassador lauded Pakistan’s initiatives for energy transition.