Northern Pakistan transforms lives with community-driven energy projects

In northern Pakistan, nearly 12 million people still lack access to electricity, which is crucial for their daily lives. Over the past decade, the provincial government has aggressively pursued the electrification of remote areas by constructing more than a thousand micro-hydropower (MHP) units. This initiative has demonstrated success by bringing electricity to various communities, thereby improving living conditions, economic opportunities, and quality of life. However, the implementation of these projects is fraught with challenges, particularly due to unpredictable weather patterns and governance issues that jeopardize their sustainability. As decentralised energy projects have gained traction in these underserved regions, local communities have been afforded an opportunity to control and benefit from their own energy resources. The emergence of MHPs has necessitated collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including government departments, non-profit organisations, local authorities, and community organisations. Yet, this decentralisation has unveiled significant governance challenges, complicating the management of these projects and their ability to deliver lasting impacts on communities. Addressing these governance issues will be essential to achieving the dream of energy democracy in the region. The impact of electricity access extends beyond mere lighting of homes, with profound implications for women in these communities. Gender roles traditionally limit women's participation in planning and managing energy projects. However, the introduction of MHPs has allowed some women to emerge from traditional roles, enabling them to start small businesses through newfound electricity access. For these initiatives to be transformative, they must empower women further by prioritising their input and involvement in energy project planning. As the provincial government continues to navigate the complexities associated with decentralised energy systems, the lessons learned from MHP projects can guide future energy solutions. It is critical to not only install the technologies but also create integrated systems that cater to community needs while being resilient to changing circumstances, particularly in the face of climate change. By focusing on adaptability, northern Pakistan can forge a path toward sustainable development and improved energy access for its most vulnerable populations.