Pakistan Adds 27 GW of Solar in Clean Energy Boom

Across Pakistan, rooftops are transforming into power plants at a pace that has caught even energy experts by surprise.

The nation has deployed an estimated 27 to 33 gigawatts of solar capacity across homes, businesses, and farms, according to Renewables First, an energy think tank tracking the country's solar surge. That's enough clean energy to power tens of millions of homes and represents one of the fastest solar buildouts in South Asia.

The growth has been remarkable. Pakistan imported 51.5 gigawatts worth of solar panels from China through November 2025, with costs totaling over $2 billion. Most of those panels arrived in just the past two fiscal years, showing how rapidly solar adoption has accelerated.

The impact is visible in the country's electricity grid itself. Power demand now dips noticeably during midday hours when solar panels hit peak production, then surges again in the evening. It's the same pattern seen in countries like California and Australia where solar has reshaped energy systems.

"The widespread uptake of solar is increasingly evident in declining midday grid demand compared to previous years," explains Rabia Babar, who manages data analysis at Renewables First. She notes that residential customers are leading the charge, though businesses and farms are also embracing solar energy at impressive rates.

The Ripple Effect

The solar boom is creating changes that extend far beyond individual electricity bills. Homes and businesses that once depended entirely on an unreliable grid now have greater energy independence, helping families save money and companies maintain steady operations.

The shift is especially meaningful for a country where power outages have long disrupted daily life and economic activity. Solar installations are giving people control over their energy future while reducing pressure on Pakistan's strained electrical infrastructure.

Looking ahead, Babar predicts 2026 will bring even faster growth, particularly as battery storage becomes more accessible. Solar-plus-storage systems could help families and businesses power through evening hours and nighttime, making clean energy practical around the clock.

The government is considering policy changes that could affect future installations, including a shift from net metering to net billing for solar customers. Clear timelines and policies will be essential to maintain investor confidence and keep the momentum going, Babar notes.

Pakistan's solar success story shows what's possible when clean energy technology becomes affordable and accessible to everyday people.