**KARACHI:** Energy experts, economists and policy specialists have urged the government to make solar power more affordable for heat-stressed and low-income households, stressing that equitable access to clean energy is essential for Pakistan’s long-term energy security and climate…
Energy analysts, economic researchers, and policy advisors have called on Pakistani authorities to expand solar energy accessibility for economically disadvantaged and heat-affected populations, framing equitable clean energy distribution as vital for the nation's climate adaptation and future energy stability.
The appeals were voiced at a Karachi Press Club seminar titled "Pakistan’s Energy Security: The Reality for Working People," which was co-hosted by the Karachi Union of Journalists and The Knowledge Forum.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kaiser Bengali, a former advisor to the chief executives of Sindh and Balochistan, argued that public administrations ought to alleviate citizens' hardships during periods of emergency instead of compounding economic pressures through expanded taxation. He contrasted Pakistan's taxation approach with Australia's historical response during the Gulf War, pointing out that Australia lowered levies to assist the public.
Bengali additionally condemned fuel cost hikes implemented amid recent geopolitical tensions in the region and advocated for a subsidized credit initiative to help middle- and lower-income residents set up rooftop solar infrastructure. Furthermore, he recommended establishing a monthly fuel limit of 150 liters for individual automobiles to curb overall consumption.
Addressing regional disparities, public finance specialist Sadya Siddiqui pointed to data from the Economic Survey 2024-25 indicating that Sindh's inequality metric reached 35.9%, outstripping Punjab at 32% and Balochistan at 26%.
Siddiqui explained that recurring climate catastrophes, such as floods and extreme heat waves, routinely compel provincial authorities to redirect substantial funds toward recovery operations. She stated that climate vulnerabilities are now officially acknowledged as presenting a more severe danger to the national economy than foreign currency shortages or tax collection deficits.
Drawing on data from the Household Integrated Economic Survey, Siddiqui also underscored restricted electricity availability and low solar penetration levels within regions including Tharparkar and Jacobabad.
Basil Andrews, a climate and energy policy specialist representing The Knowledge Forum, stated that households belonging to the lowest income brackets allocate upward of 60% of their earnings toward utility bills and cooking energy. He observed that while rooftop solar adoption is expanding quickly, the trend predominantly favors wealthier demographics, whereas inhabitants of high-rise apartment complexes in Karachi generally lack available roof area to transition to solar power.
Additional speakers urged state planners to integrate social welfare, climate resilience, and financial accessibility into power sector strategies, asserting that dependable and low-cost electricity is imperative for safeguarding public health, protecting vulnerable populations, supporting women, and fostering broader economic stability.
Originally reported by energyupdate.com.pk on Jul 31, 2026.
