Energy efficiency: Pakistan can save massive energy through conservation

‘Almost 25% energy conservation potential exists in every sector’.

ISLAMABAD:

National Energy Conservation Centre (Enercon) has identified a huge potential for energy efficiency and through proper implementation – Pakistan can save around 7 billion dollars per annum, according to Secretary Environment Farid Ullah Khan.

The centre had conducted detailed audits and surveys which showed that an average of 25 per cent energy conservation potential exists in each sector of the national economy, he said on Monday.

He said sector-wise energy conservation potential includes 25 per cent for industry, 20 per cent for transport, 20 per cent for agriculture, and 30 per cent for buildings.

Khan emphasised that Pakistan was facing an extreme energy crunch; however, comprehensive and sustainable strategies and amendments in related laws are being brought into effect to conserve energy.

The government will make every effort to encourage use of alternative fuel in the country, he said. According to him, all possible initiatives were being taken to promote such activities in the country, adding that the centre had created awareness regarding the cost effectiveness and potential for energy savings by shifting to energy efficient methods. He believed that the public should alter their behaviours and adopt habits to ensure a clean environment

In industrial sector, which consumes approximately 43 per cent of the nation’s commercial energy, Khan said in collaboration with international organisations, around 90 preliminary energy audits at various types of facilities like glass, food processing, textile, foundry and tobacco were conducted.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 7^th, 2011.