Minister charts ambitious course

Caretaker Minister for Energy, Muhammad Ali, has unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at ensuring the nation’s future energy needs are met efficiently. Ali highlighted the importance of ramping up hydrocarbon exploration activities across potential areas in the country to secure Pakistan’s energy future. Speaking during an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi International Progressive Energy Congress (ADIPEC) in Abu Dhabi, Ali shared insights into the government’s multifaceted approach to addressing energy challenges.

The minister revealed that Pakistan is preparing to introduce comprehensive policies for tight gas and shale gas. Additionally, the country has already announced bids for onshore exploration and plans to initiate offshore exploration bids in December. Ali expressed confidence in Pakistan’s presence at ADIPEC this year, with approximately ten companies participating, representing various sectors, including exploration, oil marketing, and related industries.

The response from the global energy community during the conference’s opening day was described as remarkable, with strong interest in Pakistan’s energy offerings. Ali commended the enthusiastic engagement of Pakistani companies and considered it a promising start for the event.

Emphasising the importance of decarbonisation and electrification, Ali outlined these critical components as central to Pakistan's energy strategy for the future. He acknowledged that these aspects may not have received adequate attention in the past but highlighted that there is now a strong focus on integrating them into the nation's energy landscape.

The government has initiated several key initiatives to address decarbonisation and electrification, including energy conservation efforts, electrification campaigns, and repurposing natural gas for power generation to facilitate the electrification of appliances and vehicles.

On the decarbonisation front, the Climate Ministry is actively involved in establishing a carbon fund. Simultaneously, the Energy Ministry is diligently developing a comprehensive carbon policy. Ali stressed the ultimate goal is to unite all stakeholders to harness the full potential of these initiatives for a sustainable energy future.

The minister outlined three primary priorities for Pakistan's energy sector. First, addressing exploration challenges by enhancing data availability, removing payment obstacles, and revising policies to streamline exploration activities. Second, expanding the supply of natural gas to meet the nation's increasing energy requirements. Third, focusing on the power sector, including investments in transmission infrastructure, promoting renewable energy sources, and resolving circular debt issues to ensure a stable power supply and payment resolution.

While acknowledging that Pakistan had not historically placed as much emphasis on decarbonisation, Ali underscored the country's newfound focus on this vital aspect. Pakistan is actively engaged in developing renewable energy projects, improving energy efficiency, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The nation is also seeking partnerships with Middle Eastern countries renowned for their advanced energy technologies to accelerate its decarbonisation objectives.

Ali emphasised that the Middle East possesses advanced technologies and experts in the energy sector, making it an ideal partner for Pakistan's energy aspirations.

Regarding the significance of ADIPEC, Ali noted that it serves as a pivotal platform for collaboration between the global energy industry and governments. The event brings together decision-makers, experts, and investors to discuss the latest trends and challenges in the energy sector, fostering international cooperation to address the world's evolving energy needs.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 5^th, 2023.

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