On the second day of consultations, suggestions were sought from private stakeholders for finalisation of Pakistan's new draft Alternative & Renewable Energy Policy 2019 with the government representatives stated that during the last fiscal year, 40 percent electricity was generated through imported fuel, which is highly unsustainable for the country's economy. The government intends to increase the share of renewable energy by setting long-term targets.
The current energy mix, according to an official, is real problem for the power sector and a contributing factor for circular debt and there is need to add hydel power and alternate energy to change it and make the energy affordable for various sectors of the economy and general consumers.
The meeting was attended by private sector representative bodies and entities including World Wind Energy Association, Renewable & Alternative Energy Association of Pakistan, Pakistan Wind Energy Association, Pakistan Solar Association, Solar Quality Foundation, Pakistan Sugar Mills Association, Energy Update Group, USPCAS-E, leading law firm and consulting firms. The workshop was also attended by multilateral donor agencies including World Bank, IFC, ADB, USAID UNIDO and KfW.
Participants of the meeting also gave their input regarding the draft ARE Policy 2019. The discussions and inputs received during the consultations will enable AEDB to finalise its draft for placing the same before the federal cabinet for its approval to place it before Council of Common Interests for its final approval.