Sindh Energy Dialogue calls for climate-focused energy policy

KARACHI: Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah has underscored the need for the government to collaborate with civil society in coming up with a climate-informed and inclusive energy policy for the province.

Speaking at the Sindh Energy Dialogue, jointly organised by The Knowledge Forum and NED University of Engineering and Technology on Wednesday, the minister emphasised the importance of aligning energy initiatives with climate change and energy justice.

The event gathered experts, government officials, public representatives and members of the Sindh energy department to analyse and critique the province’s energy policies and actions. Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Sciences at NED University Dr Noman Ahmed opened the dialogue by highlighting the critical impact of energy policies on citizens and local economies. “There is an immense need for regular, focused discussions on the energy direction of the country,” he stated.

During his address, Shah outlined the Sindh government’s renewable energy initiatives, including plans to establish solar parks and provide solar home systems for underserved populations.

He also defended the province’s coal development projects, positioning them as a response to the rising cost of energy in Pakistan. “The Sindh government is committed to delivering affordable electricity for all. Civil society must collaborate with experts and institutions to contribute to our energy plans,” he said.

Director of Alternate Energy for the Sindh government Mahfooz Qazi talked about ongoing efforts to transform the energy sector, such as solarising government buildings. He announced that the next phase would extend solarisation to government hospitals and schools.

The dialogue also explored Sindh’s broader energy landscape, focusing on issues of access and availability. Experts repeatedly called for a shift away from fossil fuels, advocating for a comprehensive phase-out strategy. “Coal mining’s environmental consequences remain a pressing concern,” noted Muhammad Badar Alam from the Policy Research Institute of Equitable Development, as he differentiated between the impacts of local and imported coal extraction methods.The event underscored the urgent need for sustainable, climate-resilient energy policies to address the province’s energy challenges while ensuring justice and inclusivity.