Pakistan to import 12,000 megawatts of solar panels this year

The Senate Committee has reported that the country will import 12,000 megawatts of solar panels this year.

During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental coordination, chaired by Senator Sherry Rehman.

Discussions regarding the Pakistan Trade Control of Wild Fauna and Flora (Amended) Bill 2024 took place, during which the chairperson emphasized the need for further work on the bill.

PPP Senator Shahadat Awan informed the committee that the bill states that the scientific authority cannot determine the ecosystem. He suggested that the issues faced by wildlife in relation to human life should also be included in the bill.

Officials from the Ministry of Law indicated that any additions would require the bill to be redrafted.The chairperson of the committee noted that there is an act regarding the import of animals, but it is not being implemented.

The Ministry of Climate Change informed the committee that by 2030, 30% of vehicles in the country will be electric, and 60% will be renewable energy.

The committee revealed that 12,000 megawatts of solar panels will be imported during the current financial year.

The EPA informed the committee that in September, water samples were taken from three locations at Rawal Dam, which showed yellow discoloration. The committee requested a report to determine whether the water from Rawal Dam is safe for human consumption.

Earlier Denmark's Ambassador Jakob Linulf met with Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, on Tuesday to discuss the assistance Pakistan needs for its transition to green energy.

The Danish envoy highlighted his country's extensive experience in renewable energy, climate resilience, water conservation, and biodiversity protection.

He emphasized the potential for knowledge sharing and technology transfer to help Pakistan achieve its environmental sustainability and climate resilience goals

Last month US Ambassador Donald Blome stated that the United States is supporting Pakistan in its goal of meeting 60% of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2030.

Speaking at the "Recharge Pakistan" event, Donald underscored the significance of this initiative, which focuses on enhancing flood resilience and water security in some of Pakistan's most vulnerable regions.