Resilient Energy in Pakistan: Saving Lives and Boosting the Economy

A new study by UNICEF reveals that developing resilient energy systems for healthcare facilities in Pakistan could save over 175,000 lives by 2030. It would also contribute significantly to the country's economy by reducing maternal, adult, and infant mortality.

Amidst an intense heatwave that has gripped Pakistan, a new study by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has highlighted the crucial role of resilient energy systems in safeguarding public health and bolstering the economy.

The study, conducted by UNICEF's Economist Impact Unit, estimates that investing in robust energy supplies for healthcare facilities could prevent over 175,000 deaths in Pakistan by 2030. This would not only save countless lives but also contribute $296 million to the country's fragile economy over the next two decades by reducing maternal, adult, and infant mortality.

Pakistan is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to as high as 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) in various parts of the country. The scorching heat has placed an immense burden on the healthcare system, which is already strained by power outages and insufficient infrastructure.

Resilient energy refers to reliable, flexible, accessible, and high-quality power supplies that can withstand and quickly recover from unexpected shocks, such as power outages and floods. UNICEF emphasizes the vital need for resilient energy systems in schools and health centers, where the absence of reliable electricity can have devastating consequences for children.

Abdullah Fadil, the UNICEF representative in Pakistan, underscores the importance of reliable energy for children's survival and well-being. "Children depend on schools, health centers, and safe drinking water for their survival, yet these facilities often don't have the electricity supply to function optimally. As the current heatwave grips the country, electricity needs have skyrocketed, leading to shortfalls that can endanger children's health."

Globally, approximately 3.5 billion people lack access to reliable electricity. Climate change is further exacerbating the disruption of energy generation and distribution in Pakistan, where floods triggered by climate-induced monsoon rains in 2022 claimed the lives of 1,739 people. The floods also devastated water infrastructure, damaging nearly half of the storage tanks, wells, and supply lines.

This year, Pakistan experienced its wettest April since 1961, with rainfall more than double the usual amount for the month. Heavy rains last month resulted in the deaths of dozens of people and caused widespread destruction of property and farmland.

Daytime temperatures in May have been 8 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) above average for the month over the past two decades. This has raised concerns about potential flooding in the northwest due to glacial melting.

UNICEF has played a vital role in restoring water systems for 350,000 people in 375 locations after the 2022 floods. The organization has also implemented several solar electrification initiatives in Pakistan.

"Pakistan has an abundance of renewable resources, and by investing in them, we are tapping into a goldmine to help children," Fadil said. "We need the private sector to play a bigger role as public sector resources will not be enough. This is everybody's business."

Investing in resilient energy systems is not merely a humanitarian imperative but also a wise economic decision for Pakistan. By reducing healthcare costs, improving education, and boosting economic productivity, resilient energy can pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for the country.