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Nuclear energy

Pakistan's Nuclear Energy Generation Surpasses 21 TWh Amid Shift to Solar

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Pakistan's nuclear energy output reached 21.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2024, marking a new record for the country. However, the World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2025 highlighted concerns over the rising cost of nuclear energy and the increasing efficiency of solar power. The report noted that solar energy is now outshining nuclear power in terms of efficiency and cost, with investment in renewables reaching $728 billion globally in 2024. This shift towards solar energy is driven by falling battery costs, which dropped 40 percent in 2024, and the growth of decentralized power systems.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pakistan's nuclear energy generation reached 21.7 TWh in 2024, marking a new record for the country.
  • The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2025 noted that solar energy is now more efficient and cost-effective than nuclear power in Pakistan.
  • Pakistan operates six nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 3.3 gigawatts, with nuclear power supplying 17 percent of the grid in 2024.
  • The construction of the Chashma-5 reactor began in December 2024, but the project is estimated to cost PKR 1.125 trillion ($4 billion), sparking concerns over the high cost.
  • The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2025 highlighted that Pakistan's energy system has reached a tipping point, where solar power increasingly outcompetes nuclear power.
  • India operates 21 nuclear reactors with more than double Pakistan's generating capacity and plans further expansion.
  • Solar and wind power surged past nuclear power globally in 2024, with solar and wind adding 565 gigawatts of new capacity, compared to nuclear's 5.4 GW.
  • Renewable energy investment reached $728 billion in 2024, far exceeding nuclear energy investment.

Statistics:

  • Pakistan's nuclear energy generation reached 21.7 TWh in 2024.
  • Solar energy investment reached $728 billion globally in 2024.
  • The construction of the Chashma-5 reactor is estimated to cost PKR 1.125 trillion ($4 billion).
  • Nuclear power supplied 17 percent of the grid in 2024.
  • Pakistan operates six nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 3.3 gigawatts.
  • Solar and wind power added 565 gigawatts of new capacity in 2024, surpassing nuclear's 5.4 GW.

Sources:

  • World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2025
  • Energy industry reports and publications
  • Official government statistics on Pakistan's nuclear energy generation and solar energy capacity

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