ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to a clean energy transition, pledging to achieve 60pc renewable energy generation and 30pc electric vehicle penetration by 2030, while urging greater regional cooperation on electricity trade and connectivity under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) framework.

Addressing the SCO Energy Ministers’ Conference virtually, Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Leghari called for urgent collaboration, technological advancement, and policy reforms to confront global and regional energy challenges. The theme was “Integrate Innovation for Energy Future”.

“Pakistan is not merely seeking investment — we are offering long-term partnerships grounded in trust, innovation and mutual benefit,” Leghari said. “We are ready to work with all SCO member states to transform our shared energy goals into tangible outcomes that benefit our people and the broader region.”

He specifically invited investment in the nationwide rollout of Advanced Metering Infrastructure, estimating a $3bn requirement to reach over 30m consumers.

Reaffirms pledge for 60pc renewable energy and 30pc EVs by 2030

Leghari outlined Pakistan’s vision for a secure, sustainable and collaborative energy future, highlighting ongoing structural reforms and long-term planning aimed at reducing reliance on short-term fixes. He underscored new initiatives such as smart metering, data-driven efficiency improvements, and the creation of a dedicated research and development (R&D) secretariat to support local innovation and technology transfer.

He also briefed the forum on the establishment of several new energy institutions which he said would lay the foundation for enhanced governance, grid modernisation, and transparent market operations.

Published in Dawn, June 27th, 2025