Energy Citizenship, Solar Energy Governance and Energy Security in Pakistan
A Qualitative Policy-Document
Keywords:
Energy Security, Energy Citizenship, Pakistan Vision 2025, Energy Poverty, Climate MitigationAbstract
Energy security remains a pressing issue in Pakistan, worsened by dependence on fossil fuels, an unreliable power supply and rising energy costs. Solar power, as a renewable energy solution, has the potential to provide decentralized, sustainable and affordable energy access while reducing energy poverty. This study investigates the role of solar energy in alleviating energy poverty and promoting energy sustainability in Pakistan, examining how the concept of energy citizenship can empower society in decision-making and decentralized energy production through participatory governance. The study is situated within Pillar 4, “Energy, Water and Food Security” of Pakistan Vision 2025. Globally, energy poverty hinders social development and economic growth; in Pakistan, it exacerbates inequalities in affordability and slows development. A qualitative policy analysis was used, examining national policy documents critically in terms of their content and goals. The findings suggest that national policy frames community-led solar initiatives as a means of improving household energy security, reducing energy poverty, fostering economic development and contributing to climate change mitigation strategies, although these outcomes are not empirically measured in this documentary analysis. Policy recommendations include incentivizing solar energy adoption, improving regulatory frameworks and promoting local participation in energy governance.
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