ISLAMABAD: The Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP) and researchers from Princeton University have launched a project to develop a long-term energy transition planning framework for Pakistan.
The initiative comes as Pakistan’s energy sector faces high costs, supply volatility, and a reliance on imported fossil fuels, which account for nearly 60% of the energy mix. Infrastructure issues, inefficient management, and transmission constraints have contributed to power shortages and a growing circular debt.
The project was announced during a two-day workshop titled “Pakistan’s Energy Transition Roadmap,” the final session in a three-part capacity-building and learning series. The event brought together more than 50 policymakers, researchers, and private-sector representatives. Drawing on Princeton’s Net-Zero project, the effort will provide guidance on shifting from imported fossil fuels to domestic, lower-cost energy sources aligned with economic development goals.
Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari said the plan requires integrated data from both the Energy and Petroleum divisions. “I believe we need to formalize this relationship with CERP to help us plan better and gain valuable insights from their experts,” Leghari said.
Bilal Anwar, CEO of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund, said climate risks and disasters increase the urgency of long-term planning.
“This project isn’t about imposing ideas, it’s about co-creating a roadmap that respects Pakistan’s unique challenges while exploring practical opportunities for cleaner, more affordable energy,” said Maroof A. Syed, President and CEO of CERP.
Dr. Chris Greig, Senior Research Scientist at Princeton’s Andlinger Center for Energy and Environment, said the workshop series has helped identify challenges and context-specific energy solutions.
The Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance at Princeton SPIA has co-sponsored the workshops over the past three years. Associate Director Pallavi Nuka said the sessions have supported energy policy discussions and fostered collaboration.
The roadmap project will examine development-compatible options to meet rising energy demand, reduce costs, and identify renewable energy investment opportunities.
