Abstract:
In Pakistan, various studies have been conducted for the electrification of off-grid areas through the solar photovoltaic system. However, the lack of analysis of load centers, solar energy potential, and the relevant economics related to these studies have been the major barriers to their practical applications. In this context, the unelectrified areas of Sindh and Punjab were analyzed using night-time satellite imagery and the obtained results were further examined through the database of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Subsequently, an evaluation of solar potential as well as the project's economic viability was conducted in the selected areas. The study finds that the unelectrified rural areas of South Punjab and Sindh have sufficient solar energy potential that can be utilized for the electrification of rural communities. Moreover, economic analysis based on the Levelized Cost of Energy revealed that the per-unit cost of electricity through Solar PV system is PKR 10.7/kWh whereas, the cost of generation through conventional energy resource is PKR 20.79/kWh. The deployment of solar PV systems in unelectrified regions also helps in the mitigation of CO2. Hence, based on the findings, the study proposes a comprehensive framework strategy for rural electrification through a Solar PV system involving all the concerned stakeholders. The outcomes and recommendations of this study will provide a basis for the formulation of an off-grid electrification policy in Pakistan.
