Pakistan’s efforts to increase its use of solar energy have resulted in a boom in the industry, but the benefits are largely bypassing the country’s middle class. The government has implemented policies to encourage the adoption of solar power, including a net metering scheme that allows households to generate their own electricity and sell any excess back to the grid. As a result, solar panel installations have surged, with the country’s solar capacity increasing from just 40 megawatts in 2015 to over 1,000 megawatts today.
However, the high upfront costs of solar panels mean that only the wealthy can afford to take advantage of the scheme. The cost of a typical solar panel system can range from $1,500 to $3,000, which is out of reach for many middle-class households. Additionally, the process of installing solar panels and connecting them to the grid can be complex and time-consuming, requiring significant paperwork and technical expertise.
This has resulted in a situation where the majority of solar panel installations are in wealthy neighborhoods, leaving middle-class households to continue relying on the grid for their electricity needs. The grid is often unreliable, with frequent power outages and high electricity bills, making it difficult for middle-class households to make ends meet.
The lack of access to solar energy for the middle class is a concern, as it means they are missing out on the potential economic benefits of renewable energy. Solar energy can help reduce electricity bills, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. Furthermore, the reliance on fossil fuels is contributing to climate change, which is having a disproportionate impact on the poorest and most vulnerable communities.
The government has recognized the need to make solar energy more accessible to the middle class and has introduced initiatives such as financing schemes and subsidies to help reduce the upfront costs of solar panels. However, more needs to be done to address the issue, including simplifying the installation process and providing greater support to low-income households. If Pakistan is to achieve its goal of increasing its use of renewable energy to 30% of its total energy mix by 2030, it will need to find ways to make solar energy more accessible to all segments of society, including the middle class.