Dr Khalid Waleed

The energy sector of Pakistan has been grappling with a severe and urgent situation, burdened by the mounting circular debt (CD) and severe liquidity pressures. These challenges have been building up for more than a decade, fueled by a combination of sluggish reforms, operational losses, and political reluctances. The fiscal year 2023 witnessed a further […]

In the quest for a greener and more sustainable future, the imperative to enhance energy efficiency and conservation has taken centre stage. As the world grapples with the challenges posed by the poly crises of climate change, conflict and trembling economies, the urgency to adopt comprehensive policies and practices of energy efficiency and conservation that […]

Energy subsidies have become an integral component of the global economy, warranting a closer examination of their economic implications. These subsidies, aimed at supporting various aspects of energy production, consumption, and renewable sources, play a pivotal role in shaping energy markets and influencing consumer behaviour. As policymakers grapple with the complexities of energy subsidies, a […]

In our current era, the well-being of our planet hangs in the balance, making it imperative to discover creative solutions to combat plastic pollution and reduce emissions. The undeniable truth is that plastic waste wreaks havoc on our oceans, wildlife, and ecosystems while the greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants continue to contribute to […]

Pakistan, like many nations, confronts a host of challenges stemming from climate change, including recurring floods, land erosion, melting glaciers, pollution, shifting weather patterns, and biodiversity loss. These environmental perils not only jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of millions but also expose the government to significant fiscal risks. Urgent action is required, and Pakistan must […]

According to Pakistan’s Bureau of Statistics (PBS), inflation has surged to a record 36.4 per cent, driven primarily by soaring food and energy prices. This makes the inflation rate the highest in South Asia, with rural areas experiencing food inflation reaching 40.2 per cent. Despite contractionary monetary policy by the central bank, inflation has not […]

In the pursuit of a cleaner, greener, and sustainable energy future, Pakistan, faces new challenges in terms of transition towards modern and renewable energy sources. The increasing prominence of clean energy technologies brings to the forefront the critical role of minerals in ensuring energy security. Therefore, the action plan in Pakistan must address the unique […]

Petyr Baelish in “Game of Thrones” famously defined chaos in the following way: “Chaos isn’t a pit. Chaos is a ladder. Many who try to climb it fail and never get to try it again. The fall breaks them. And some are given a chance to climb”. Physics defines chaos as “the property of a […]

Debt-to-nature swaps have a rich historical significance dating back to the 1980s. During this era, many developing countries, including those in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, grappled with unsustainable levels of debt that posed significant economic challenges. Simultaneously, concerns about environmental degradation and climate change were growing. In response to this dual crisis, the concept […]

Sector coupling refers to the integration of different sectors, such as the electricity, heating, and transportation sectors, to achieve greater efficiency, grid stability/flexibility, and sustainability in energy systems. Traditionally, these sectors have operated independently, with separate infrastructure, technologies, and regulations. However, as the world transitions to a low-carbon economy and seeks to reduce greenhouse gas […]