ISLAMABAD – For the first time in its history, solar power has become the largest source of electricity in Pakistan, contributing 25.3% of utility-supplied electricity during the first four months of 2025. The data was compiled by energy think tank Ember and reported via Reuters.
Just two years ago, solar ranked fifth in Pakistan’s energy mix. Its rapid ascent to the top reflects a fundamental shift in the country’s energy priorities toward cleaner, sustainable sources.
This milestone places Pakistan among a select group of fewer than 20 countries worldwide where solar energy contributes over a quarter of total electricity production.
Much of this success is tied to a fivefold increase in solar panel imports from China between 2022 and 2024, boosting national capacity to 16,600 megawatts. The widespread availability and declining cost of solar technology have helped both residential and commercial sectors transition away from conventional energy sources.
The rise of solar also reflects the country’s efforts to counter high fuel costs and frequent power shortages. Solar installations now offer an increasingly affordable, reliable solution for energy-hungry communities.
Government initiatives, including pro-solar policies and subsidies, have further accelerated adoption, easing pressure on the national grid and reducing Pakistan’s dependence on imported fossil fuels.
This shift represents more than an energy transition — it is a move toward long-term savings, energy independence, and a cleaner environment.
