Nuclear Power In Long-term Energy Future
Muhammad Naeem, HI, SI
Despite having a large potential for power generation through alternative and renewable energy in Pakistan, the power sector in the country is relying heavily on fossil fuel resources. Nuclear energy provides a reliable, competitive, and environmentally safe option for base-load electricity generation in the country and is better than other alternative resources in many terms. Pakistan started production of nuclear power in 1971 and has good experience of use of nuclear energy. Currently, five plants are operating with total installed capacity of 1,430 MW. Two nuclear plants of 1100 MW each are under construction at Karachi. By 2030, Pakistan plans to have 8,800 MW and by 2050, 40,000 MW installed nuclear capacity. A comprehensive energy policy needs to be devised to meet the long-term future energy requirements, taking into account all the indigenous energy resources especially Thar coal, with minimal dependence on imported fossil fuels, a reasonable share of hydro and renewable energy sources along with the nuclear power. Due importance may also be given to energy efficiency improvement, energy conservation and improvement of transmission & distribution network