Pakistan is currently facing an energy crisis while trying to improve its economic development. This has raised deep questions, especially with the government’s drive toward electric vehicle adoption. Electric vehicles are viewed as an advancement in the vision of global warming reduction efforts, but it should be realized that not every case is a case of one-size-fits-all. The transition to electric vehicles is necessary for countries with the highest emitters of greenhouse gases like the US, China, and the UK. Such may not be the case for Pakistan whereby the country accounts for a mere 0.6 % of the world’s carbon emissions.
Recently the Bank of Punjab joined the league and announced plans to set up charging stations for electric vehicles. It is indeed an encouraging move towards inclusivity and empowerment, but other big factors have to be considered when discussing large-scale EV infrastructure development in the country currently undergoing severe energy crises.
Pakistan is grappling with a severe energy crisis as load shedding has become so habitual that one has to see a power outage every other day in the country. Shortages occurring at high-demand periods generally average about 5,000 MW, thus demonstrating the differing levels of electricity demand and supply. This goes together with the outdated facilities in the country, energy wastage during the distribution process, and inadequate utilization of renewable sources in electricity production. But in our case, the production of electric vehicles (EV) connected to the national grid will most likely place overwhelming stress on existing energy resources that are already strained which in turn means a higher incidence of energy buyouts. EV charging infrastructure would place a heavy load on the national grid. So, keeping EVs where they belong is probably worth pondering whether they really should be the most immediate concern for Pakistan.
Electric cars and bikes are, nonetheless, acknowledged as having positive effects on the environment because they lower reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, such an intervention will be useful for the carbon-intensive industrialized states. Rather, we shall focus on other interventions readily available to us that will enable us to address our unique challenges and promote growth and prosperity more effectively.
Seeking alternative sources such as the raising of investments in solar wind energy. Given that Pakistan is blessed with around 300 days of sun, it is at the top of solar energy production countries in the world. According to the World Bank Pakistan can generate electricity through solar energy and by dedicating only 0.071% of its land for solar photo-voltaic power generation the state can fulfill its present electricity demand and potentially save up to $5 billion over the next 20 years. We would stimulate other measures, such as the installation of this number of solar farms and solar receiving units on building roofs, to cover the electricity gap and decrease the reliance on fossil fuels. The windy regions of coastal Sindh and coastal areas of Baluchistan are ideal for wind energy projects too. Realization of these resources will however improve the energy profile of the country providing a more reliable energy source.
Another key measure concerning sustainable development strategy could be the advancement of the public transport infrastructure. Investments in the construction of mass transit buses and rails can reduce traffic jams, its emissions and satisfy people’s mobility within cost and efficiency.
One of the possible solutions is the promotion of fuel economy and the use of hybrid vehicles. Internal combustion engines with advanced fuel economy will bring down net fuel consumption as well as emissions. Hybrid vehicles containing internal combustion engines and electric motors serve as an intermediate remedy that conserves fuels and emissions to an acceptable level without stressing the electrical system. Fuel economy regulations and programs that provide financial incentives for the purchase of fuel-efficient vehicles can be very effective against emissions enhancement.
The promotion of alternative fuels presents another avenue for sustainable development. Bio-fuels derived from agricultural waste should also be investigated thoroughly because they will provide bio-energy and improve the agriculturist sector. Establishing environmental regulations and encouraging industries to employ clean technology will stimulate engagement in cleaner activities.
One other opportunity is to develop the strength to withstand climate-related challenges starting with Pakistan, which is one of the countries most at risk from natural disasters. Disaster-resilient infrastructure enhances safety supports income-generating activities and contributes to improved economy. These enhancements in infrastructure will include the addition of flood fright structures, facilities for the management of drought, and plans for disaster handling. Focusing on such critical and essential elements will shield our achievements and conserve us from any further plague or catastrophe.
As electric vehicles contribute to the reduction of carbon footprint across the world, the case in Pakistan is different due to the energy crisis. The right path of development should include in the first place renewable energy, public transport, human resources development, and protections from climate change. These alternatives fit our peculiar situation and at the same time help to achieve sustainable development and prosperity.
Moving forward, development strategies should be developed with care for electric vehicles in Pakistan. It is easy to see why some might consider the switch to EVs as a right turn, but for us, it is a juncture that begs for a bracing and review. With constructive optimism let us guide ourselves to the future that can leverage our strengths while effectively responding to our difficulties should our advancement be genuine and resilient. In the case of Pakistan and electric vehicles, the wise choice is to understand that a promising path might not always be the right turn.
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Atika Hassan is an International Relations Scholar from the University of the Punjab, Lahore. She has profound interest in geopolitics, climate change, and world order. She is a published author and passionate about exploring global challenges and solutions