Main Sources of Electricity Generation in Pakistan

Pakistan's power generation mix is diverse, combining thermal, hydro, nuclear, and growing renewable sources. As of recent data, the primary sources are:

1. Thermal Power (Fossil Fuels)

Dominates generation, using natural gas, imported coal, furnace oil, and diesel. Accounts for over 60% of installed capacity.

2. Hydropower

Harnesses the Indus River system (Tarbela, Mangla, Ghazi Barotha, Neelum-Jhelum). Provides ~25-30% of capacity; highly seasonal.

3. Wind Power

Concentrated in the "Gharo-Keti Bandar" corridor in Sindh and Balochistan. Rapidly expanding; over 1,500 MW installed.

4. Solar Power

Utility-scale PV plants (e.g., Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park) and accelerating rooftop installations. High potential given solar irradiance.

5. Nuclear Power

Operating plants: KANUPP (Karachi), Chashma-1 to Chashma-4 (Punjab). Total ~3,600 MW; more units planned (Chashma-5, Karachi-3/4).

6. Coal Power (Local & Imported)

Thar coal projects (mine-mouth plants) and imported coal plants (Sahiwal, Port Qasim). Controversial due to emissions but critical for baseload.

Other Renewables

Small contributions from biomass (bagasse cogeneration in sugar mills) and pilot geothermal projects.

Policy Direction

Pakistan's Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) targets 30% renewables by 2030, alongside nuclear expansion and Thar coal utilization, aiming to reduce import dependence, lower costs, and improve sustainability.