Karachi, Pakistan – March 15, 2024: As part of AKDN’s commitment to net zero by 2030, the
Aga Khan University (AKU) is installing the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) project. To
commence the project, a signing ceremony was held with Exide Pakistan Limited, who will be
executing the project at AKU’s Stadium Road Campus in Karachi, Pakistan.
Renewable energy is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and
transition to clean energy systems. Solar irradiation is very high in Pakistan which makes solar
PV ideal for energy generation in the country. In 2022, AKU installed 550 kilowatt solar PV on
three of its campus roofs, resulting in highly positive environmental impact. In the project
launching today, 3.3 megawatt of solar PV will be installed across the remaining roofs as well as
three large parking areas of the campus, providing the much-needed shade to the cars parked
below. The installation of the new panels will happen in phases, with completion aimed by April
2025.
AKU President, Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin expressed ‘This is a major step forward in
implementing our decarbonization plan which we set for ourselves in 2022. This project
demonstrates AKDN’s and AKU’s ongoing and strong commitment to environment, sustainability
and responding to climate change through renewable energy.’
AKU’s goal of net zero emissions by 2030 involves reducing absolute emissions in line with
science using renewable energy and other strategies. Renewable energy must go hand in hand
with increased energy efficiency, such as improved buildings, efficient equipment, and behaviour
changes. AKU is rapidly progressing on all these areas of emissions reduction and has been
closely monitoring its emissions footprint while aligning with the University’s Decarbonisation
Plan.
“The partnership between AKU and Exide Pakistan Limited to provide clean and free electricity
is commendable. Not only does it 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 Exide Pakistan Limited. “Through dedication and
collaboration, initiatives like this can have a profound impact on sustainability efforts across
various industries. Here’s to the successful implementation of the project and to the ongoing
enhancements that will make AKU a role model in carbon-free healthcare.”
The solar project will reduce the burden on the K-Electric power grid and improve local air
quality. Solar PV not only provides carbon-free electricity but also significantly lowers the cost of
electricity, provides independence from fossil fuels, and reduces noise and air pollution.
The project is expected to save 1900 tonnes of CO2e every year, or the equivalent emissions
produced by burning 800,000 litres of petrol in a car. This endeavour underscores AKU’s
commitment to environmental stewardship and positions it as a leader in climate action, not only
within Pakistan but also on a global scale.
