Electric appliances are integral to daily life in Pakistan, utilised across households, offices, and commercial establishments. These appliances, from air conditioners and refrigerators to televisions and electric irons, play a vital role in modern living. However, their extensive usage poses significant energy consumption and efficiency challenges.

Government sources reveal that electricity consumption in Pakistan soars to approximately 29,000 mega watts (MW) during the summer and 12,000MW during the winter. The summer season witnesses an additional 17,000MW of electricity utilisation, with air conditioners accounting for around 5,300MW and fans contributing approximately 12,000 MW.

Notably, lighting and space cooling are the primary electrical end-use categories, with bulbs, tube lights, fans, air coolers, and air conditioners playing crucial roles.

Addressing the escalating energy demand, experts suggest that enhancing energy efficiency is a key step towards achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Pakistan. In pursuit of this objective, the government has implemented several initiatives.

Propelling Pakistan’s sustainability through increased energy efficiency and appliance revolution

Effective July 1, 2023, the production of inefficient electricity fans will be discontinued, accompanied by an additional duty on such fans, resulting in an estimated savings of Rs15 billion. Furthermore, the manufacturing of incandescent light bulbs ceased on February 1, 2023, leading to projected savings of Rs22 billion. These measures aim to promote energy efficiency and contribute to the country’s sustainable development.

A comparative analysis of energy efficiency measures and standards reveals that European countries demonstrate stringent regulations. These countries enforce energy efficiency through labelling requirements and directives like the Ecodesign Directive. Similarly, India emphasises energy efficiency through a star rating system for appliances and mandatory energy labelling.

In Pakistan, steps have been taken to enhance energy efficiency, including implementing mandatory energy labelling for specific appliances. The National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority plans to expand the Energy Efficient Standards and Labeling mechanism to cover air conditioners, refrigerators, and deep freezers.

However, it is worth noting that these initiatives have encountered limitations. Without comprehensive labelling information, consumers and end-users lack the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about a product’s true cost. This situation diminishes manufacturers’ incentive to improve the energy performance of their products, as the market fails to recognise and value energy efficiency adequately.

Regarding technology adoption for energy efficiency, Europe has a higher adoption rate of energy-efficient technologies. European households commonly employ appliances with inverter technology, smart controls, and improved insulation.

India has also experienced significant growth in technology adoption, particularly in urban areas, with a wide range of energy-efficient appliances available in the market. While Pakistan’s adoption rate may be slower compared to Europe, there has been a gradual increase in the availability of energy-efficient appliances, primarily in urban areas.

Drawing inspiration from the United States, where individuals can access various loans and financial assistance options for replacing inefficient appliances, Pakistan can explore similar avenues.

Collaborative efforts between banks and private agencies to introduce replacement and financing schemes for fans, lights and air conditioners targeting households, small- and medium-sized enterprises, as well as not-for-profit sectors like schools, hospitals, and mosques, can accelerate energy conservation without relying solely on government involvement and support. Non-governmental organisations and philanthropists can also play a crucial role in replacing inefficient appliances in mosques, madrasas, and hospitals.

Implementing effective strategies such as optimising daylight utilisation and replacing inefficient appliances can greatly contribute to addressing Pakistan’s electricity crisis. By focusing on energy efficiency measures and promoting appliance adoption, Pakistan can establish a sustainable future with reduced energy consumption.

Even a modest five per cent reduction in the additional demand of 17,000MW during summer can result in annual savings of 850MW. These initiatives will not only alleviate the electricity burden but also pave the way for a brighter and more energy-efficient tomorrow.

The writer is the Pro Vice Chancellor at Dawood University of Engineering and Technology

Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, August 7th, 2023