Afghanistan, despite its rich renewable energy resources, remains heavily dependent on imported electricity, and a vast portion of its population still lacks access to power. As the world moves toward broader use of clean and sustainable energy sources, Afghanistan has the potential to utilize its renewable resources to not only achieve self-sufficiency in energy but also play a key role in the country’s economic and social development.
Current Energy Supply Situation in Afghanistan
According to data from Afghanistan’s electricity company, only 35% of the country’s 40 million population has access to electricity. This means that 65% of the population, mainly in rural and mountainous areas, remains without power. Over the past two decades, the country’s energy infrastructure has seen little development, leaving many villages without electricity.
On the other hand, Afghanistan imports approximately 1,400 megawatts of electricity annually, mainly from neighboring countries such as Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. This import, however, cannot fully meet the needs of the population due to infrastructural limitations and increasing demand. Frequent power cuts and rationing, particularly during the cold and hot seasons, are among the challenges faced by many, especially in urban and peripheral areas.
Potential for Renewable Energy
Due to its geographical position and natural conditions, Afghanistan has great potential for producing various types of renewable energy:
1.Solar Energy: Afghanistan experiences an average of 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the best locations for solar energy production. Solar panels could provide a reliable source of electricity, particularly in remote and rural areas.
2.Wind Energy: Several regions in Afghanistan, particularly in the west and northwest, experience strong and constant winds, creating a significant potential for wind power generation. This resource could complement solar energy as a key source of clean power.
3.Hydropower: With its numerous rivers and abundant water resources, Afghanistan has substantial potential for hydropower generation. Although climate change and periods of drought may reduce efficiency, investing in related infrastructure could ensure stable energy supply from this source.
4.Geothermal Energy: Some mountainous and seismically active regions in Afghanistan offer potential for geothermal energy use. This type of energy could provide a stable and reliable source of electricity and heat, especially in cold regions.
Government Actions and Policies
Before the recent political changes, the Afghan government had made some efforts to develop renewable energy and reduce dependency on imported electricity. Notable projects included the construction of a 10-megawatt solar power plant in Kandahar, funded with $20 million, and a project in Herat to produce 200 megawatts of wind power, which was halted due to political changes.
Since the Taliban came to power, some previously approved projects have resumed. The current government has signed contracts with domestic and foreign companies to develop wind and solar power plants. Contracts have been signed with companies such as Zolerstan and the Turkish firm 77 to produce over 200 megawatts of wind and solar power. However, political and security conditions remain significant obstacles to utilizing these projects.
Public Participation and Solar Energy Use
In addition to government efforts, Afghan citizens have independently started using solar panels. Due to the lack of reliable electricity, many rural households have installed solar panels to meet basic needs such as lighting and charging electronic devices. The declining cost of solar panels in recent years and their widespread import from China and India have led to increased use of solar energy in rural areas.
Although these panels can only supply electricity for small household needs and cannot power more complex appliances like heating systems or heavy electrical devices, their use marks an important step toward reducing dependency on imported electricity and promoting sustainable energy infrastructure.
Challenges and Future Paths
Despite Afghanistan’s vast potential for renewable energy, several significant challenges hinder its development and utilization. Key challenges include:
1.Political Instability and Social Insecurity: Political and security instability remain among the largest obstacles to attracting domestic and foreign investment in the renewable energy sector. Many international companies refrain from entering the Afghan market due to concerns over security conditions and frequent changes in policy.
2.Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of appropriate infrastructure for producing, storing, and distributing renewable energy is a major constraint to developing this sector. The current electricity grid is outdated and unable to meet the growing demands of the population, particularly in rural areas.
3.Lack of Long-Term Planning: Although some renewable energy projects have been initiated in recent years, Afghanistan needs a comprehensive, long-term plan for sustainable renewable energy development. This plan should be supported by international organizations and regional neighbors to fully harness the country’s potential.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Afghanistan, with its rich natural resources and favorable geographical conditions, could become a leading country in renewable energy production. Utilizing solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal energy can not only increase access to electricity but also reduce the country’s dependency on imported power and contribute to economic development.
To achieve these goals, Afghanistan needs precise planning, international and regional cooperation, and political stability. Although many challenges lie ahead, with concerted efforts and the necessary investments, the country can attain energy self-sufficiency and pave the way for sustainable economic growth and development.
