Karachi: As part of AKDN’s commitment to achieve net zero by 2030, the Aga Khan University (AKU) is installing the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) project.
Solar radiation is very high in Pakistan, which makes solar PV ideal for power generation in the country. In 2022, AKU installed 550 kilowatts of solar photovoltaics on three of its campuses’ roofs, which had a very positive impact on the environment. The project, which opens today, will see 3.3 megawatts of solar photovoltaics installed on the remaining roofs and three large parking lots on campus, providing much-needed shade for the cars parked below. Installation of the new panels will take place in stages, with completion by April 2025.
President of AKU, Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, said: “This is a significant step forward in the implementation of our decarbonisation plan, which we have set for 2022. This project demonstrates AKDN and AKU’s continued and strong commitment to the environment, sustainability and responding to climate change through renewable energy. ‘
AKU’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030 includes reducing absolute emissions in line with science using renewable energy sources and other strategies. Renewable energy must go hand in hand with increased energy efficiency, such as improved buildings, efficient equipment and behavioral changes. AKU is making rapid progress in all of these areas of emissions reduction and is closely monitoring its carbon footprint while being in line with the university’s decarbonisation plan.
Not only does this benefit AKU, but it also sets a shining example for other hospitals and universities to follow in promoting renewable energy and combating climate change,” said Mr. Altaf Hashwani, Director, of Exide Pakistan Limited.
The solar project will reduce the load on the K-Electric grid and improve local air quality. Solar PV not only provides carbon-free electricity, but also significantly lowers electricity costs, provides independence from fossil fuels, and reduces noise and air pollution.
The project is expected to save 1,900 tons of CO2e per year, or the equivalent emissions produced by burning 800,000 liters of gasoline in a car. This effort underscores AKU’s commitment to the environment and positions it as a leader in the fight against climate not only in Pakistan but also globally.
